Hamilton school teacher facing sexual assault, sexual interference charges

An elementary school teacher in Hamilton has been charged with sexual assault in connection with an incident involving several students.

Hamilton police said they began their investigation last month when the victims came forward to report the alleged incident at Rockton Elementary School.

As a result of their investigation, 44-year-old Ryan Barrett, a teacher at the school, has been arrested and charged with three counts of sexual assault and three counts of sexual interference.

In a statement to CP24, the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) said it was aware of the arrest and that it is taking the allegations “very seriously.”

“When the allegations were reported we worked expeditiously to support student safety and Ryan Barrett was immediately placed on administrative leave. Steps were taken to prevent him from continuing to teach in any HWDSB schools,” the board said.

It added that the restriction on Barrett would remain in place until the case is resolved.

Police say their investigation is ongoing and are asking anyone with information to contact Det. Mike Dunham at 905-546-4847.