A doctor at Toronto’s renowned Hospital for Sick Children is facing charges in connection with an online child exploitation investigation conducted by Toronto police.
The investigation, initiated in January 2026 by Toronto Police’s Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) unit, was prompted by the alleged use of an electronic device to access and download material related to child sexual abuse and exploitation.
Following the execution of search warrants at the Hospital for Sick Children and a private residence in February 2026, which resulted in the seizure of multiple electronic devices, including a work computer, Dr. Dilan Dissanayake, aged 44, was arrested by officers on Tuesday, July 21.
While confirming Dr. Dissanayake’s position as a doctor at the hospital, the police state that, currently, there is no evidence linking the child sexual abuse and exploitation material to his medical practice.
Dr. Dissanayake has been charged with possession and access of child sexual abuse and exploitation material. The investigation is ongoing, as per police sources.
In response to the charges, SickKids Hospital expressed deep dismay and condemned the alleged actions of the accused in a statement released on Tuesday. The hospital assured that patient safety is their top priority and emphasized that there is no perceived risk to patients and families. Dr. Dissanayake was promptly placed on leave upon the hospital’s knowledge of the investigation.
For any patient families who were under the care of Dr. Dissanayake and have concerns, SickKids has encouraged them to reach out via email at patient.relations@sickkids.ca.