Dentist in Cobourg charged with sexual assault, facing similar charges in Oshawa

Photo of Sunilkumar Patel. Courtesy of Durham Regional Police.

By Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM News, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter.

A dentist practicing in Cobourg, charged a few days ago with sexual assault, is facing similar charges in Oshawa.

The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario said that Sunilkumar Patel was charged on July 24, 2024 with two counts of sexual assault.

In September, 2024 the College placed restrictions on Patel including; “Undertake to only practise dentistry under the direct supervision and while in the continuous presence of the Workplace Monitor,” and that signage must be posted in his dentistry office visible to the public that he is under restrictions.

Cobourg Police opened their investigation June 27, into an allegation at the Northumberland Dental Clinic, charging Patel July 6.

Cobourg Police believe there may be other victims.

Patel was released on bail and and has conditions including; “do not seek, obtain, volunteer work, or positions of trust involving one-on-one medical, therapeutic, counselling, or personal-care services to members of the public other than the current dentistry practice,”

An employee at the Northumberland Dental Clinic, who stated he was an assistant, but did not identify himself when requested, said that the allegations against Patel are false and that he has been instructed not to discuss the matter further. The Clinic is still accepting patient appointments.

Patel is scheduled to appear in Cobourg court July 29. There is a publication ban in place.