Local real estate agent Jason Machado has been charged by Hamilton Police with voyeurism following allegations that hidden recording devices were used over an extended period beginning in 2007.
Hamilton Police said in a news release that 40-year-old Machado faces three counts of voyeurism.
Authorities were contacted after a witness discovered video recordings allegedly involving the accused.
Jason Machado (photos released by Hamilton Police Service).
Real estate registration terminated
Machado’s online profiles list him most recently as an agent with Cambridge-based Shaw Realty Group. The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) registrant search shows his registration was voluntarily terminated on May 5.
“Jason Machado is no longer associated with our brokerage. Shaw Realty Group severed all relations with him immediately upon learning of the charges. We are truly shocked by this news and did not see it coming,” said Shaw Hasyj, owner of Shaw Realty Group, in a statement to Real Estate Magazine.
The brokerage also said it has provided a therapist to support current and former agents who may have been affected.
Investigation spans nearly two decades
Police have seized multiple electronic devices that are undergoing forensic examination as the investigation continues.
A preliminary review of the materials reportedly uncovered multiple recordings showing individuals in private settings without their knowledge or consent. Investigators allege the videos were captured using hidden recording devices placed in locations where people had a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Authorities say the recordings appear to span several years, from 2007 through 2025.
Police seeking additional victims
Investigators have not yet identified all individuals depicted in the videos and are concerned there may be additional victims. Police released photographs of Machado to help identify anyone who may have been affected.
Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Constable Zach Walters of the Division 30 Criminal Investigations Division at 905-546-8968 or by email at [email protected].
Those who wish to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.