NewsRelease_MAR19_2026

Investigators with the Hamilton Police Service Major Drugs and Gangs Unit – Human Trafficking Branch have charged a Hamilton man following a human trafficking investigation.

In March 2026, police initiated an investigation into Michael SMITH in relation to human trafficking activities within the City of Hamilton.

Investigators allege that between June 2025 and March 2026, SMITH trafficked multiple victims, advertised sexual services online, and financially benefited from the exploitation of those individuals. It is further alleged that he used violence and controlled substances to exert control over his victims.

Michael SMITH was arrested and appeared in court on March 18, 2026, where he was remanded into custody.

Police are releasing an image of SMITH as investigators believe there may be additional victims. Anyone who may have had contact with him or who has information related to this investigation is urged to come forward.

If you have any information that you believe could assist investigators with this crime, you are asked to contact Detective Constable Lindsay Toscani at 905-546-3828.

Hamilton Police want all survivors of human trafficking to know that we believe them, and we will respect their choice when and how they report an incident.

Hamilton Police would like to encourage anyone who believes that they may have been a victim of human trafficking, to come forward and report the incident to police. There is no statute of limitations for human trafficking, and offenders can be prosecuted well after the date of the offence. If you are a survivor of human trafficking, you can report the incident by contacting the Human Trafficking Unit non-emergency line at 905-546-3828, or by filing a report online www.hamiltonpolice.on.ca.

Hamilton Police understand that while human trafficking often causes long-lasting trauma, survivors may have difficulty speaking about the incidents with friends, family members, or police officers. If someone is not ready to report; however, is seeking support please contact Hamilton Police Victim Services at 905-546-4904.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamiIton.com.

There is no guaranteed way to prevent sexual assault. Sharing the details of these assaults is intended to provide the community information, and people are encouraged to trust their instincts. For confidential support, please call the Sexual Assault Centre’s 24-hour support line at 905-525-4162 or connect at www.sacha.ca, or the Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Care Centre at www.hhsc.ca/sadv.