News Summary
A doctor of Indian origin in Secaucus, New Jersey, has been charged with multiple offenses, including illegal opioid prescriptions and sexual exploitation of patients. Ritesh Kalra faces five federal charges, including drug distribution and healthcare fraud, after allegedly issuing over 31,000 prescriptions without legitimate reasons and demanding sexual favors from patients. Kalra’s medical license is suspended, and he faces serious legal consequences, urging authorities to identify further victims and ensure accountability in the healthcare sector.
Secaucus, New Jersey – Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Unlawful Opioid Prescriptions and Sexual Exploitation
A 51-year-old doctor of Indian origin practicing in Secaucus, New Jersey, has been formally charged with multiple criminal offenses related to illegal opioid prescribing and the sexual exploitation of patients. The charges allege that the physician used his medical license to prey on vulnerable patients, issuing thousands of prescriptions and engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct.
Key Charges and Court Proceedings
The doctor, identified as Ritesh Kalra, faces five federal charges, including three counts of illegal drug distribution and two counts of health care fraud. Following a court hearing, he has been ordered to remain under home detention and has posted an unsecured bond of $100,000. Kalra’s medical license has been suspended pending resolution of the case.
Details of the Allegations
Prosecutors allege that Kalra issued more than 31,000 prescriptions for oxycodone from January 2019 through February 2025 without legitimate medical reasons. These prescriptions contributed to the opioid epidemic by allowing the distribution of controlled substances to patients potentially battling addiction, exploiting his professional authority.
In addition to unlawful prescribing practices, Kalra is accused of engaging in sexual misconduct with patients. Reports indicate that he demanded sexual favors, including oral sex, from female patients in exchange for prescriptions. One woman claims she was coerced into anal sex during a medical appointment, highlighting the severity of the allegations. Another patient said Kalra prescribed opioids to her while she was incarcerated at Essex County Correctional Facility, despite having no communication or consultation with her during that time.
Claims of Healthcare Fraud
The case also involves allegations of healthcare fraud. Court documents reveal that Kalra engaged in billing practices for “ghost” appointments—sessions that never physically occurred—thus illegally obtaining reimbursements. Further investigation uncovered that his electronic medical records included fabricated progress notes, many of which contained identical content across different patient files and lacked vital signs, indicating deliberate manipulation to support fraudulent billing.
Legal Implications and Penalties
Each of the drug distribution counts carries a potential maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, while each health care fraud charge could result in up to 10 years behind bars and significant fines. The case underscores the serious consequences for healthcare providers found guilty of such misconduct.
Response and Calls for Victims
Officials and authorities are urging anyone who may have been a victim of Kalra or who has relevant information to come forward and contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case continues to develop as investigators seek to identify additional victims and gather evidence related to these allegations.
Background Context
This case highlights ongoing concerns about abuse of medical licenses and the vulnerability of patients to exploitation and fraudulent practices. It also emphasizes the importance of oversight in the healthcare sector to prevent professionals from abusing their positions of trust.
Kalra’s legal struggles and the allegations against him serve as a reminder of the critical need for strict regulation, accountability, and vigilance in the medical profession to protect public health and safety.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Doctor Faces Charges for Medical Fraud and Misconduct
Indian-Origin Doctor Ritesh Kalra Charged with Multiple Crimes
Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud and Abuse
Indian-Origin Doctor Faces Criminal Charges for Misconduct
Newark Doctor Charged with Opioid Crimes and Sexual Exploitation
Additional Resources
- NDTV
- Wikipedia: Opioid epidemic in the United States
- Times of India
- Google Search: Ritesh Kalra
- Hindustan Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Medical Fraud
- MSN
- Google News: Medical Fraud
- Hudson County View
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.
