Statement on criminal charges against SickKids staff member
Summary:
The safety of our patients and families is our highest priority, and there is currently no evidence linking the charges to care provided at SickKids.
The Toronto Police Service has laid criminal charges against Dr. Dilan Dissanayake for possession and accessing child sexual abuse and exploitation material. We are deeply upset and dismayed by this news and condemn the behaviour alleged in the police investigation.
We understand that this news is concerning and the safety and well-being of our patients, families and staff remain our highest priority. SickKids has not been notified of any risk to patients and families, and the Toronto Police Service has indicated there is no evidence that the charges are connected to Dr. Dissanayake's medical practice. He was placed on immediate leave once SickKids became aware of the investigation.
Patient families who received care from Dr. Dissanayake and have concerns can email patient.relations@sickkids.ca. We do not have any additional information at this time and questions about the investigation and charges should be directed to the Toronto Police Service.