Dr. Dilan Dissanayake, 44, a rheumatologist at the Hospital for Sick Children, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material.
Police investigators found no evidence that the material was connected to his medical practice. The charges involve possession and access to illegal content.
The investigation began in January after an electronic device was used to download child sexual abuse content, prompting the Internet Child Exploitation Unit to conduct searches.
Search warrants were executed in February at the hospital and a private residence, resulting in the seizure of multiple electronic devices, including a work computer.
Hospital officials placed Dr. Dissanayake on immediate leave upon learning of the investigation and issued a statement expressing dismay and condemning the alleged behavior.
The statement emphasized that patient safety remains a priority and that no risk to patients or families had been identified.
Patients who received care from Dr. Dissanayake are encouraged to contact the hospital with any concerns via the provided email address.
The hospital advised that further information regarding the investigation should be directed to police.
Police have indicated that the case remains active and are seeking additional information from the public.
