Hamilton Police have charged a second man in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged drug-induced sexual assaults that began with the arrest of Bryan Hayward in May 2025. Gilles Richard, 43, faces charges including gang sexual assault and administering an overpowering or stupefying drug.
Details of the investigation
According to police, Richard became involved with Hayward online, and the two allegedly targeted adult victims through dating platforms and social media. They would arrange encounters, then allegedly give victims incapacitating drugs without their knowledge before sexually assaulting them. Investigators believe there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward.
Anyone who has come into contact with either man or has information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact the Hamilton Police sex crimes unit at 905-540-5553 or Crime Stoppers at www.crimestoppershamilton.com.
Background of the case
Hayward was arrested in May 2025 following a W5 investigation that uncovered a global network of male predators who allegedly used online forums to boast about drugging and sexually assaulting women, posting photos and videos of the assaults. One man in Europe described in detail how he allegedly knocked out his wife and assaulted her, referring to her as his “doll” and “toy.” The news program forwarded the information to police, leading to an immediate investigation.
Hayward currently faces dozens of charges related to allegedly drugging and sexually assaulting women and posting images online. His criminal history includes theft, drug possession, impaired driving, fraud, forgery, criminal harassment of an ex-girlfriend, and a dropped charge related to allegedly making an explosive device that resulted in the loss of his left hand. Several women who claimed to be his victims reached out to the news program after the investigation aired.
Allegations involving Hayward's daughter
Hayward's ex-wife, Chelsea Davies, told W5 in November that while police found no images of her on his devices, she suspects their daughter was drugged while in his care. In 2023, she said Hayward returned their daughter from a visit, drooling and lethargic. A toxicology report later tested positive for the sedative benzodiazepine. Davies reported speaking with police multiple times, but no charges were filed. Hamilton Police stated at the time they were evaluating whether additional charges could be laid.
