Toronto doctor at SickKids charged with possessing child sexual abuse material

A doctor at Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children is facing charges following an internet child exploitation investigation by Toronto police.

Dr. Dilan Dissanayake, 44, was arrested Tuesday after police began investigating in January 2026 when an electronic device was allegedly used to access and download child sexual abuse and exploitation material. In February, officers executed search warrants at the hospital and a private residence, seizing multiple electronic devices including a work computer.

Dissanayake is charged with possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material and access to child sexual abuse and exploitation material. Police confirmed he is a doctor at SickKids but said investigators have found no evidence the material is connected to his practice as a physician. He was placed on immediate leave once the hospital became aware of the investigation.

SickKids said it has not been notified of any risk to patients and families, and Toronto Police indicated there is no evidence the charges are connected to his medical practice. Patient families who received care from Dissanayake and have concerns can email patient.relations@sickkids.ca. The investigation remains ongoing.