Muhammad Amanullah | August 7, 2026
The True Post (Web Desk): A second employee at Toronto’s renowned SickKids Hospital has been arrested on serious child exploitation-related charges, raising fresh concerns about safety measures and staff screening at one of Canada’s leading pediatric healthcare institutions.
According to Toronto Police, the investigation began in October 2024 after authorities received a complaint alleging that a minor had been lured through electronic communications.
Alleged Contact With a 15-Year-Old
Police allege that Antonio Elvin Dela Cruz, 55, communicated with a 15-year-old through social media platforms and various messaging applications.
Investigators claim the suspect sent inappropriate messages, engaged in sexually explicit conversations, and allegedly shared explicit images with the minor.
Search Warrant Executed
On July 29, officers executed a search warrant in the area of Don Mills Road and Highway 401 in Toronto.
Police seized multiple electronic devices and documents, which have been secured for forensic examination as part of the ongoing investigation.
Multiple Criminal Charges Filed
Antonio Elvin Dela Cruz has been charged with several serious offences, including:
- Luring a person under the age of 18 using telecommunications
- Making sexually explicit material available to a minor
- Committing an indecent act in the presence of a person under 16
- Accessing child sexual abuse material
- Possession of child sexual abuse material
The accused has appeared in court, and legal proceedings are underway.
Hospital Responds
SickKids Hospital confirmed that the accused was employed in its Housekeeping Department.
Hospital officials stated that the employee was immediately placed on leave after the criminal charges became known and later resigned from his position.
Second Arrest in Recent Weeks
The latest case follows the arrest of Dr. Dilan Disanayake, a SickKids physician who was charged in late July with offences related to alleged child sexual abuse material.
Hospital officials said there is no evidence that the two employees knew each other or worked together.
SickKids Issues Statement
In a public statement, SickKids described the allegations as deeply disturbing, particularly because two employees have faced similar criminal allegations within a matter of weeks.
The hospital also noted that Toronto Police have stated there is currently no evidence suggesting the alleged offences were connected to the employees’ work at the hospital or involved patients.
Investigation Continues
Police say the investigation remains active and additional evidence is still being reviewed.
Legal experts emphasize that these are allegations only, and under Canadian law, every accused person is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The case has renewed discussions about employee background checks, ongoing monitoring, and enhanced child protection measures within institutions serving children.
