News Summary
A Secaucus internist, Ritesh Kalra, faces charges for running a large-scale illegal opioid distribution operation, often referred to as a ‘pill mill’. He is accused of issuing thousands of prescriptions without legitimate medical reasons and soliciting sexual favors from patients in exchange for opioids. In addition to these serious allegations, the doctor is charged with healthcare fraud through falsified medical records. If convicted, he faces significant prison time while currently being held under house arrest.
Secaucus, New Jersey — Doctor Accused of Running Pill Mill and Soliciting Sex for Opioid Prescriptions
Ritesh Kalra, a 51-year-old internist of Indian origin practicing in Secaucus, New Jersey, has been formally charged with operating a large-scale illegal opioid distribution scheme, often referred to as a “pill mill.” The charges also include accusations of soliciting sexual favors in exchange for prescription opioids and engaging in healthcare fraud.
Allegations of Extensive Illegal Prescriptions
According to authorities, Kalra issued more than 31,000 prescriptions for oxycodone between January 2019 and February 2025. Some days reportedly saw as many as 50 prescriptions written, a volume significantly above typical medical practice norms. The prescriptions involved high doses of opioids and promethazine with codeine, medications known for their high potential for addiction and abuse.
The U.S. Attorney’s office states that Kalra’s medical practice lacked legitimate medical justification for these prescriptions. Prosecutors contend that the prescriptions were issued under fraudulent circumstances, often without proper patient evaluation, and primarily aimed at drug diversion rather than genuine medical treatment.
Healthcare Fraud and Faked Medical Records
The case alleges that Kalra committed healthcare fraud by billing New Jersey Medicaid for services that he never provided. Evidence suggests that he submitted claims for consultation and counseling visits that, in reality, never took place. Investigators found that medical records used to justify these claims were fabricated, with identical progress notes across multiple patient files and missing vital signs, indicating deliberate falsification.
Claims of Sexual Misconduct and Inappropriate Behavior
Former employees of Kalra’s practice disclosed that several female patients reported misconduct, including allegations that the doctor inappropriately touched them and demanded sexual favors in exchange for prescriptions. One patient reportedly claimed she was sexually assaulted on multiple occasions, including an incident where she was allegedly forced into anal sex during an appointment. These accusations, if verified, would constitute serious violations of medical ethics and criminal law.
Additional Controversies
The indictment also details that Kalra continued to prescribe opioids to an incarcerated patient who had no contact with him, raising concerns about further abuse of prescribing authority. Despite these serious allegations, Kalra appeared before a U.S. Magistrate Judge, where he was released under house arrest after posting a $100,000 unsecured bond. Under court orders, he is prohibited from practicing medicine or maintaining his clinic during the ongoing investigation.
Legal Consequences and Defense
If convicted on all counts, Kalra faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count of illegal drug distribution. The healthcare fraud charges carry a potential sentence of up to 10 years per count. His legal team has denied the allegations, claiming that the accusations are baseless and exaggerated, and continues to assert his innocence.
Additional Background
Investigations reveal prior issues involving Kalra, notably a previous case where he was ordered to pay $12,000 in wages to an employee due to non-payment. This detail adds context to ongoing concerns about his professional conduct and financial management.
The case against Ritesh Kalra underscores the broader concerns about abuse of prescription practices, the opioid epidemic, and misconduct within healthcare settings. Prosecutors emphasize the severity of the charges and the importance of holding accountable those who jeopardize patient safety and public health through illegal and unethical actions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Doctor in Secaucus Charged with Opioid Crimes and Fraud
Federal Charges Filed Against New Jersey Doctor for Fraud
Doctor Faces Charges for Medical Fraud and Misconduct
Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud and Abuse
Newark Doctor Charged with Opioid Crimes and Sexual Exploitation
Additional Resources
- Hindustan Times
- Wikipedia: Opioid crisis
- NY Daily News
- Google Search: Ritesh Kalra
- NJ.com
- Google Scholar: medical fraud
- PIX11 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: healthcare fraud
- Times of India
- Google News: sexual exploitation in medicine
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.
