News Summary
Dr. Ritesh Kalra, a physician in New Jersey, has been charged with sexual misconduct and healthcare fraud. Allegations include soliciting sexual favors for prescriptions and defrauding Medicaid. Kalra faces serious legal consequences, including potential prison time and fines. Investigators uncovered fabricated medical records and identical content across many patient files, raising serious concerns about his practice. Authorities urge potential victims to come forward as the investigation continues.
Newark, New Jersey — Indian-Origin Doctor Faces Serious Criminal Charges
Dr. Ritesh Kalra, a 51-year-old physician based in New Jersey, has been formally charged with multiple criminal offenses related to sexual misconduct and healthcare fraud. Authorities allege that Kalra exploited his medical practice and patients for personal gain, leading to significant legal repercussions.
Key Allegations and Charges
Kalra is accused of soliciting sexual favors from patients in exchange for prescriptions. Multiple female patients reported that they were subjected to unwanted sexual touching and were pressured to perform sexual acts, including oral sex, to receive their medications. One patient alleged that Kalra forced her into multiple instances of sexual assault, including forced anal sex during clinical appointments.
In addition to sexual misconduct, authorities have charged Kalra with defrauding New Jersey Medicaid. Investigators found that he billed the Medicaid program for visits and counseling sessions that allegedly never occurred, contributing to healthcare fraud amounting to millions of dollars. Records suggest that Kalra issued over 31,000 oxycodone prescriptions between January 2019 and February 2025. Some days, he allegedly wrote more than 50 prescriptions, raising concerns about prescription drug abuse and illegal distribution.
Legal Proceedings and Practice Restrictions
As part of the ongoing investigation, the medical practice operated by Kalra has been ordered to cease operations pending the case’s resolution. Currently, he is under home arrest and is barred from practicing medicine or prescribing any medication during this period.
Federal prosecutors have officially charged Kalra with five counts: three related to illegal distribution of controlled substances and two pertaining to healthcare fraud. If convicted on all counts, Kalra faces a maximum of 20 years in prison for each drug distribution charge and up to 10 years for each healthcare fraud offense. Fines could reach up to $1 million for drug-related charges and $250,000 for fraud-related charges.
Findings During Investigation
Investigators uncovered troubling evidence, including fabricated medical records and identical content across multiple patient files. Notably, many files contained no vital signs or legitimate clinical notes, raising concerns about the authenticity of care. These records, combined with the high volume of prescriptions, suggest systemic misconduct.
Officials’ Response and Calls for Victims
US Attorney Alina Habba issued a statement condemning Kalra’s actions, emphasizing that he exploited vulnerable patients and contributed to illegal drug distribution and addiction issues. FBI Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy urged anyone who may have been victimized or is aware of someone treated by Kalra to come forward and contact authorities for assistance.
Background and Context
Kalra’s case highlights ongoing concerns about healthcare fraud, prescription drug abuse, and exploitation within medical practices. The investigation underscores the importance of monitoring healthcare providers and encouraging patients to report misconduct. The case remains active, and legal proceedings are underway to determine Kalra’s guilt or innocence on the charges filed.
Patients, families, and community members are encouraged to stay alert to potential abuse and to seek support if they believe they may have been affected by Kalra’s actions. Authorities continue to investigate any additional misconduct and potential victims across the state and beyond.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Newark Doctor Charged with Opioid Crimes and Sexual Exploitation
Additional Resources
- NDTV
- Wikipedia: Sexual Exploitation of Patients
- LiveMint
- Google Search: Ritesh Kalra
- Hindustan Times
- Google Scholar: Medical Fraud
- Times of India
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Healthcare Fraud
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.
