A Brantford man has been charged with sexual assault following an incident involving a 19-year-old woman who responded to an online advertisement, according to the Brantford Police Service.
Police said the accused posted an online advertisement seeking “paid hypnosis study participants.”
After responding to the advertisement, the victim attended the accused’s residence on Grey Street, believing she was taking part in a legitimate research experiment.
While at the residence, police allege the accused engaged in inappropriate actions toward the victim.
The victim left the residence and was not physically injured. Police said the victim and the accused were not known to each other prior to the incident.
The incident is reported to have occurred at approximately 10:10 a.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026.
As a result of the investigation, a 28-year-old Brantford man was arrested on January 9, 2026, and charged with one count of sexual assault.
At this time, police said they do not believe there are additional victims.
However, investigators are asking anyone who may have had a similar experience, or who has information related to the incident, to contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050.
Anonymous tips can also be provided to Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477.
Police ask that reference be made to incident number 26-00919.
