‘Intoxicated’ Hamilton man charged after alleged hate-motivated assault downtown

A police vehicle is seen in Hamilton, Ont., on Friday, May 2, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nick Iwanyshyn

A 28-year-old Hamilton man is facing charges after what police describe as an unprovoked, hate-motivated assault in the city’s downtown core.

In a news release, Hamilton Police say officers responded on Feb. 21, to a report of an assault in the area of Augusta Street.

Police allege a woman was standing on a public street when she was approached by an “intoxicated” man who began verbally harassing her using derogatory language.

Despite attempts to de-escalate the interaction, police say the accused struck the woman in the face, knocking off and breaking her glasses.

The incident escalated, with the victim allegedly pulled to the ground and kicked.

The suspect was arrested at the scene and charged with assault and resisting a peace officer.

Police have not released the name of the accused.