By ENS NEWS
Toronto, Canada — One of Canada’s most respected pediatric healthcare institutions, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), has confirmed that one of its physicians has been placed on immediate leave after being charged with child sexual abuse material-related offences.
The development has drawn widespread public attention, raising concerns about trust, accountability, and safeguarding within healthcare institutions that care for children.
According to the Toronto Police Service, Dr. Dilan Dissanayake, 44, has been charged with possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material and accessing child sexual abuse and exploitation material following an investigation conducted by the Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit.
Police Investigation
Investigators said the case began in January 2026 after receiving information that an electronic device had allegedly been used to access and download child sexual abuse material online.
Following several weeks of investigation, police executed search warrants in February 2026 at both a private residence and The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.
Authorities seized multiple electronic devices, including a work computer, for forensic examination.
Police have stated that the investigation remains active and that additional evidence continues to be reviewed.
No Evidence of Connection to Patients
While the charges are serious, Toronto Police emphasized an important point during their announcement.
Investigators said they have found no evidence that the alleged offences are connected to the doctor’s clinical work or to any patients receiving care at SickKids Hospital.
Authorities also indicated there is currently no information suggesting that patients at the hospital were directly involved in the alleged offences.
The police continue to encourage anyone with relevant information to come forward as the investigation progresses.
SickKids Responds
SickKids issued a public statement expressing shock and disappointment over the allegations.
Hospital officials said they became aware of the investigation and immediately placed the physician on leave pending the outcome of the legal process.
The hospital stated that protecting children and maintaining public confidence remain its highest priorities.
SickKids also reassured families that, based on information provided by investigators, there is currently no indication that patient safety was compromised.
Hospital leadership acknowledged that the allegations are deeply disturbing and recognized the concern they may cause among patients, families, staff, and the wider community.
Legal Process Continues
Under Canadian law, every individual charged with a criminal offence is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
The charges against Dr. Dissanayake have not been tested in court, and no findings of guilt have been made.
Legal proceedings will determine whether the allegations can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Child Protection Remains a Priority
Cases involving child sexual abuse material are among the most serious offences investigated by law enforcement agencies worldwide.
Canadian police continue to invest significant resources into identifying individuals involved in the creation, possession, distribution, or access of child sexual abuse material while working with national and international partners to protect children from exploitation.
Experts emphasize that healthcare institutions, schools, and organizations serving children must maintain rigorous safeguarding measures, thorough background screening, and strong reporting mechanisms to preserve public trust.
Public Reaction
News of the charges has generated significant reaction across Canada, particularly because SickKids is internationally recognized for providing specialized pediatric healthcare and medical research.
Many members of the public have expressed sympathy for patients, families, and hospital staff while also calling for the judicial process to proceed fairly and transparently.
Observers note that allegations involving professionals entrusted with the care of children inevitably attract heightened public scrutiny due to the responsibilities associated with such positions.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation continues, Toronto Police are expected to provide further updates if new evidence emerges.
For now, hospital operations continue as normal, and SickKids says it remains committed to delivering safe, high-quality care to every child and family it serves.
The case serves as a reminder that allegations of this nature must be treated with both seriousness and fairness—protecting potential victims, respecting due process, and ensuring accountability through Canada’s justice system.
ENS NEWS will continue to follow this story and provide verified updates as more information becomes available.
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