News Summary
A Newark physician, Ritesh Kalra, is facing serious charges for illegal opioid distribution without medical justification, health care fraud, and sexual exploitation of patients. Accusations include running a ‘pill mill’ and issuing thousands of prescriptions over a short period, alongside alarming claims of sexual misconduct during patient appointments. As Kalra undergoes legal proceedings under house arrest, the case draws attention to the critical need for oversight in healthcare to prevent abuse and protect patient safety.
Newark, New Jersey — Doctor Charged with Multiple Crimes Including Opioid Distribution and Sexual Exploitation
A physician based in Newark, New Jersey, has been formally charged with engaging in illegal prescribing practices, health care fraud, and sexual misconduct involving patients, according to federal authorities. Ritesh Kalra, 51, an Indian-origin doctor, faces serious allegations that include distributing opioids without legitimate medical reasons and exploiting patients sexually.
Details of the Charges
Kalra is accused of operating a “pill mill,” a term used to describe medical clinics that dispense large quantities of prescription drugs, particularly opioids, in exchange for profit rather than patient health needs. Between January 2019 and February 2025, he allegedly issued over 31,000 prescriptions for oxycodone, a powerful opioid. Some days, he is accused of writing more than 50 prescriptions, fueling concerns about potential contributions to the ongoing opioid epidemic.
The U.S. Attorney’s office describes how Kalra continued issuing prescriptions even when there was no legitimate medical purpose, including for incarcerated individuals. For instance, he reportedly prescribed opioids to a patient confined within Essex County Correctional Facility, raising questions about oversight and regulations being bypassed.
Financial Fraud and Record Fabrication
The indictment also accuses Kalra of engaging in health care fraud. He reportedly submitted bills to New Jersey Medicaid for consultations and counseling sessions that never actually took place. To support these claims, authorities say Kalra submitted fabricated medical records, including identical progress notes across different patients and records that lacked basic vital signs. This fraudulent record-keeping indicates deliberate attempts to inflate or justify fake consultations for billing purposes.
Allegations of Sexual Misconduct
One of the most alarming aspects of the case involves allegations that Kalra sexually exploited his patients. Multiple former employees have reported that female patients complained of being touched inappropriately during appointments. It is further alleged that Kalra demanded sexual favors, including oral sex, in exchange for prescriptions of opioids and other medications. One patient has claimed to have been forcibly subjected to anal sex by Kalra during a clinical encounter, adding a serious criminal dimension to the case.
Legal Proceedings and Restrictions
Kalra has been placed under home arrest while the legal case proceeds. Authorities have restricted him from practicing medicine or prescribing any medications during this period. Additionally, his medical practice has been ordered to be closed for the duration of the legal process.
The federal indictment charges Kalra with five counts: three for illegal drug distribution and two for healthcare fraud. If convicted, he faces potential sentences of up to 20 years for each drug-related count and up to 10 years for each fraud-related charge. Fines could reach up to $1 million per drug charge and over $250,000 for each health care fraud count.
Broader Implications
Authorities emphasize the case as a stark example of how medical licenses can be misused for personal gain and harm. The investigation highlights concerns about the abuse of medical authority for sexual exploitation and the illegal distribution of potent narcotics. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of strict oversight in healthcare and the need for vigilance against practices that endanger patients and the wider community.
Summary
In summary, the case involves a licensed physician in Newark accused of issuing thousands of opioid prescriptions without medical justification, engaging in health care fraud, and sexually abusing female patients. The legal process continues as authorities work to hold Kalra accountable for these serious allegations, aiming to prevent future abuse and protect patients’ safety.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Federal Charges Against Doctor in Vaccine Fraud Case Dropped
Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
