NYGH doctor faces sexual assault charges.
Dr. George Doodnaught, 61,
Photo/TORONTO POLICE
An anesthesiologist has been charged after three women were allegedly sexually assaulted while undergoing surgical procedures at North York General Hospital.The assaults occurred between August 2007 and February 2010. The victims, who are in their mid-30s to late 80s, were under anesthetic at the time.The police investigation began in mid-February."We believe that there may be other victims out there, so we are appealing to you to come forward and advise us of your recollection of an incident," Det. Const. Julie Stehlik told reporters during a Thursday, March 11, afternoon news conference at police headquarters. "As well, we are appealing to any witnesses who may have any information to assist us during this investigation to come forward."Dr. George Doodnaught, 61, was arrested Wednesday and charged with three counts of sexual assault. He had been working at North York General for 28 years. "I speak for our entire staff when I say that we are shocked and devastated that anything like this may have happened at North York General Hospital," said hospital president Bonnie Adamson at a press conference later that afternoon."I cannon imagine how painful this must be for the patients and their families who have come forward. My heart goes out to them."Dr. David White, acting chief of staff, said, "We are working co-operatively with the police as they continue their investigation and over time this will help us understand what actually happened. I am confident that these charges are specific to one physician and that the hospital is a safe environment for our patients."According to hospital officials, a patient came forward with the allegations in mid-February, and that the accused hasn't been working at the hospital since. The investigation is continuing, police said."We are also aware that the accused has worked at a variety of clinics in the province," said Stehlik, of 33 Division. "We will be working with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario to locate and identify the clinics."Doodnaught has been granted bail with conditions. He is scheduled to appear in court April 1.Anyone with information is asked to call police at 416-808-4040, North York General Hospital at 416-756-6271 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).- with files from Lisa Queen