TORONTO, July 22, 2026 – A Toronto doctor at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) has been arrested in connection with allegations involving the possession of and access to child sexual abuse and exploitation material. During the investigation, police executed search warrants at SickKids and seized multiple electronic devices, including a work computer.
Toronto Police said on July 21 that the Internet Child Exploitation Unit began the investigation in January of this year. Police allege that an electronic device was used to access and download child sexual abuse and exploitation material. In February, investigators executed search warrants at SickKids and a private residence, seizing multiple electronic devices.
On July 21, police arrested 44-year-old Toronto resident Dilan Dissanayake. Police confirmed that he is a physician at SickKids and is facing two charges: possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material, and accessing child sexual abuse and exploitation material. The case is now before the courts, and the allegations have not been proven.
Because the accused worked at a children’s hospital, one of the main concerns among parents after the case became public was whether the investigation involved his medical practice or hospital patients.
Toronto Police specifically stated that, at this time, investigators have found no evidence that the alleged child sexual abuse and exploitation material was connected to his work as a physician. Police also said the investigation remains ongoing.
Based on the information currently released by police, the criminal allegations cannot be directly linked to children who received medical care from the accused physician. While police seized a work computer as part of the investigation, they have not disclosed which device contained the alleged material, nor have they indicated that any patients were harmed during his medical practice.
For families whose children have received or are currently receiving care at SickKids, this distinction is especially important. The allegations involving child sexual abuse material are serious, but until further evidence is released by police or presented through court proceedings, the public should not assume the case involved hospital patients solely because of the accused’s professional role.
Dissanayake appeared before an Ontario court on July 21. Toronto Police continue to investigate and are asking anyone with relevant information to contact investigators.
SickKids is one of Canada’s most recognized pediatric healthcare institutions, and the case has drawn significant public attention. However, based on the information currently available from police, the investigation remains focused on the alleged individual conduct involving accessing and possessing illegal material. Whether additional devices, individuals, or circumstances are involved remains under investigation.
Until a final court decision is reached, the accused is presumed innocent.(LJI by Yuanyuan)
