A physician at Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) has been charged with possessing and accessing child sexual abuse and exploitation material, according to Toronto police.
Police said 44-year-old Dilan Dissanayake of Toronto was arrested on Tuesday following an investigation by the Toronto Police Service’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit.
Investigators allege an individual used an electronic device to access and download child sexual abuse and exploitation material. In February 2026, police executed search warrants at both SickKids and a private residence, seizing several electronic devices, including a work computer.
Police said investigators have found no evidence that the alleged material is connected to Dissanayake’s work as a physician or his medical practice. The allegations have not been proven in court.
In a statement, SickKids said it is “deeply upset and dismayed” by the charges and condemned the alleged conduct. The hospital said patient safety remains its highest priority and confirmed Dissanayake was placed on immediate leave once it became aware of the police investigation.
The hospital added that Toronto police have advised there is no evidence linking the charges to patient care. Families with concerns are encouraged to contact SickKids’ patient relations team.
Dissanayake was scheduled to appear in a Toronto courtroom on Tuesday. The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact Toronto police.
