North York doctor faces more sex assault charges

TORONTO, Ont. - A North York doctor is facing 26 additional sex assault charges following a seven month investigation.

Dr. George Doodnaught, 61, was originally charged back in March in connection with sexually assaulting patients.

"The assaults did take place while the victims were under anaesthetic and undergoing surgical procedures while in the hospital," Const. Wendy Drummond told 680News.

Investigators said Doodnaught has been an anaesthesiologist since 1981, and has worked at North York General Hospital on Leslie Street, for the past 28 years.

One of the incidents dates back to 1992, but the others reportedly took place between 2006 and 2009.

According to a statement on their web site, North York General Hospital said all the allegations relate to one doctor who no longer works there, and remarked that the situation is unusual and difficult.

"We are putting out the appeal for any other victims to come forward," said Const. Drummond, "sexual assaults are something that are difficult for people to come to terms with and then report it."

During an operation, a surgeon, surgical assistant, scrub nurse, circulating nurse and an anesthesiologist are together in the same room, but they are allowed to come and go. Therefore, the hospital's chief of staff told the Canadian Press that it is possible for an anaesthesiologist be alone with a patient.

There were no cameras in North York's General's operating rooms.

Anyone who may have witnessed, heard or seen anything that may assist with this investigation is asked to contact police at 416-808-4040.

As part of the investigation, officials plan to examine whether vivid dreams experienced while under the influence of anaesthesia could have had an affect on the patients' recollection of the crimes.

North York General Hospital has provided a number for patient inquires: 416-756-6271.