Thunder Bay, Ont., police officer criminally charged with theft, breach of trust

An officer with the Thunder Bay Police Service has been criminally charged with theft under $5,000 and breach of trust.

The police service issued a news release about the charges late Friday afternoon, saying it conducted an internal investigation after receiving a complaint.

"The officer has been suspended with pay in accordance with legislation. As this matter is now before the court, the Thunder Bay Police Service is unable to provide further comment or information," police said in the news release.

The officer facing charges has not been named.

"Maintaining public confidence is a top priority and I thank those who displayed the courage to speak out," said police chief Darcy Fleury in the release.