News Summary
Ritesh Kalra, a New Jersey physician, faces serious charges including illegal opioid distribution, sexual exploitation of patients, and Medicaid fraud. Allegations reveal he operated a ‘pill mill,’ prescribed excessive quantities of opioids without justification, and coerced sexual favors from patients. If convicted, he could face decades in prison as authorities emphasize the need to protect vulnerable patients in healthcare settings.
Secaucus, New Jersey — Doctor Charged with Opioid Distribution, Sexual Favors, and Medicaid Fraud
A physician from Secaucus, New Jersey, Ritesh Kalra, aged 51, has been formally charged with multiple serious violations, including illegal distribution of opioids, soliciting sexual favors from patients in exchange for prescriptions, and defrauding the New Jersey Medicaid program. The charges, filed in a 5-count Complaint, also include healthcare fraud and allegations of operating a pill mill out of his medical practice.
Details of Charges and Court Proceedings
Ritesh Kalra faces three counts of distributing opioids outside the scope of legitimate medical practice and two counts of healthcare fraud. The charges stem from activities believed to have taken place primarily between January 2019 and February 2025. He made his initial appearance in federal court on July 17 before U.S. Magistrate Judge André M. Espinosa in Newark. Following his initial hearing, Kalra was released under home incarceration with an unsecured bond set at $100,000. He is currently prohibited from practicing medicine or prescribing medication, and his medical practice has been shut down pending the case’s resolution.
Operation of a Pill Mill and Prescription Practices
Kalra reportedly operated a “pill mill” from his medical office located in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. Investigators allege that he prescribed high doses of opioids, such as oxycodone and promethazine with codeine, without proper medical justification. Records show that between January 2019 and February 2025, he issued over 31,000 prescriptions for oxycodone alone. Multiple instances of overly frequent prescriptions are noted, with reports indicating that he sometimes issued more than 50 prescriptions in a single day.
Allegations of Sexual Exploitation and Assault
Testimonies from former employees and patients describe allegations of Kalra demanding sexual favors from patients to obtain prescriptions. Multiple female patients have reported being sexually coerced, including instances where they alleged forced acts during clinical appointments. One patient accused Kalra of multiple counts of sexual assault, including forced anal sex during medical consultations.
Additional Illegal Activities and Fraudulent Practices
Further troubling allegations include Kalra prescribing opioids to a patient who was incarcerated and had no contact with him, raising questions about the legitimacy of those prescriptions. He is also accused of billing for medical visits and counseling sessions that never occurred, fabricating electronic medical records with false notes and service dates. Such fraudulent billing practices contributed to the healthcare fraud charges.
Legal Penalties and Official Response
If convicted, each count of illegal drug distribution could result in a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and fines up to $1 million. Healthcare fraud charges carry potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines that could reach double the financial gains or losses caused by the offense. Prosecutors have condemned Kalra’s actions, emphasizing that the exploitation of vulnerable patients, especially those struggling with addiction, is a grave concern.
Defense and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Kalra’s attorney has publicly denied the allegations, describing the charges as unfounded and damaging. However, as the legal process continues, authorities remain focused on holding the physician accountable for what they describe as significant breaches of medical and legal standards.
The case against Ritesh Kalra underscores ongoing concerns regarding the misuse of opioids in medical practice and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable populations from exploitation and fraud in healthcare settings.
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HERE Resources
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Federal Charges Filed Against New Jersey Doctor for Opioid Crimes
Doctor Charged with Sexual Favors for Opioids in New Jersey
Doctor Accused of Running Pill Mill and Sexual Misconduct
Doctor Charged with Opioid Distribution and Sexual Exploitation
Doctor Charged with Prescribing Opioids for Sexual Favors
Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Opioid Misconduct in New Jersey
Charges Against New Jersey Doctor Ritesh Kalra
Indian-Origin Doctor Faces Criminal Charges for Medical Fraud
Additional Resources
- American Bazaar
- Wikipedia: Opioid Addiction
- Hindustan Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Opioid
- PIX11 News
- Google Search: Opioid Addiction Crisis
- NDTV
- Google News: Opioid Prescription Fraud
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