Hamilton man accused of drugging, sexually assaulting victims faces 50 new charges, say police

WARNING: This article contains details of sexual assault and may affect those who have experienced​ ​​​sexual violence or know someone affected by it.

Hamilton police say they've laid a dozen more sexual assault charges, among others, against a man accused of drugging victims, filming the assaults and sharing them online. 

Bryan Hayward, 36, was charged Thursday after police identified more victims and uncovered more evidence, they said in a news release Friday. 

The charges are: 

• 12 counts of aggravated sexual assault. 
• 13 counts of administer a noxious substance. 
• 12 counts of administer overpowering/stupefying drug to overcome resistance.
• Five counts of voyeurism.
• Five counts of distribute intimate images without consent.
• And one count of assault. 

He was arrested on May 16 and charged for similar offences as well as assault with a weapon, possessing drugs including a tranquilizer, failing to comply with probation and driving a vehicle while prohibited. 

"Investigators believe Hayward may have connected with victims through online dating and social media platforms," police said Friday. 

Hayward is described as white, five feet ten inches tall, about 180 pounds with a medium build, brown hair and his left hand amputated. 

Some of the incidents date back to before his hand was amputated in November 2021, police said. 

Police suspect there are more victims, "including individuals unaware they were affected."

They're urging anyone who had any interaction or relationship with Hayward to contact police as they may have information relevant to the investigation.