Hamilton Police have arrested a 32-year-old Hamilton man following an investigation into a sexual assault involving a vulnerable young person.

On October 9, 2025, members of the Hamilton Police Human Trafficking Unit began investigating after a young person reported being sexually assaulted. The victim reported that they were picked up by a male suspect in the area of Barton Street and Gage Avenue, who was driving a dark-coloured vehicle. The victim was compelled to ingest an unknown substance before being sexually assaulted.

Through investigation, police identified the suspect as Vintchentso Atanassov, 32, of Hamilton. Atanassov was arrested, and a search warrant was executed at his residence. During the search, detectives seized the following items:

• Sig Sauer BB rifle
• Umarex SA10 BB handgun
• Approximately 44 grams of methamphetamine

Atanassov has been charged with multiple offences, including:

• Sexual Assault
• Sexual Interference
• Point Firearm
• Disguise with Intent
• Use of Firearm or Imitation During an Offence
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Methamphetamine
• Administer Noxious Thing
• Utter Threat to Cause Death
• Fail to Comply Probation (x2)

Atanassov was also subject to a weapons prohibition order and a keep the peace and be of good behaviour order, resulting in two additional charges of Fail to Comply.

Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are urging anyone with information to contact the Major Drugs and Gangs Unit at 905-546-3887.

Hamilton Police want all survivors of sexual violence to know that we believe you. Survivors are encouraged to report incidents when they are ready. There is no statute of limitations for sexual offences.

• To report a sexual assault, contact the Sexual Assault Unit at 905-540-5553 or file a report online at www.hamiltonpolice.on.ca.
• Survivors seeking support can reach Hamilton Police Victim Services at 905-546-4904.
• To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip online at www.crimestoppershamilton.com