The Hamilton Police Service Human Trafficking Unit has laid charges following an investigation into a series of alleged drug-facilitated sexual assaults reported to have occurred between June 2024 and May 18, 2025.
In June 2024, investigators allege that Gilles Richard became involved with co-accused Bryan Hayward through an online platform. Over the following months, it is alleged that this Richard arranged sexual encounters involving Hayward and an adult victim.
Police further allege that during these encounters, the victim was sexually assaulted while incapacitated. The victim reported being administered drugs without her knowledge or consent, including substances believed to be ketamine, which led to a loss of consciousness.
As a result of the investigation, on May 21, 2026 Gilles Richard was arrested and charged in connection with these incidents. Additional charges were laid on Bryan Hayward who is in custody on charges before the court.
Gilles Richard, 43-year-old male of Hamilton
· Gang Sexual Assault
· Administer to any person a stupefying or overpowering
· Procuring
· Fail to Comply Probation
Bryan Hayward, 37-year-old male of Hamilton
· Sexual Assault
· Voyeurism
· Gang Sexual Assault
· Administer to any person a stupefying or overpowering
Police are continuing to investigate and are concerned there may be additional victims. Anyone with information, or who believes they may have had contact with either accused under similar circumstances, is encouraged to contact investigators.
Hamilton Police want all survivors of sexual violence 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 sexual violence, to come forward and report the incident to police. There is no statute of limitations for sexual offences, and offenders can be prosecuted well after the date of the offence. If you are a survivor of sexual assault, you can report the incident by contacting the Sexual Assault Unit non-emergency line at 905-540-5553, or by filing a report online www.hamiltonpolice.on.ca.
Hamilton Police understand that while sexual assaults often cause 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.crimestoppershamilton.com
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