News Summary
Ritesh Kalra, a Newark physician, faces federal charges for running an illicit opioid distribution operation, committing healthcare fraud, and sexually exploiting patients. Allegations include operating a pill mill, prescribing excessive quantities of opioids, and soliciting sexual favors from patients. The case raises serious concerns about medical ethics and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals within the healthcare system, as authorities work to address misconduct and reinforce accountability among practitioners.
Newark, New Jersey – Doctor Charged with Opioid Distribution, Medical Fraud, and Sexual Exploitation
A physician based in Newark, New Jersey, Ritesh Kalra, 51, has been formally charged with multiple federal crimes related to illegal drug distribution, healthcare fraud, and the sexual exploitation of patients. The case underscores significant concerns over misuse of medical licenses and the integrity of healthcare practices within the state.
Key Allegations and Criminal Charges
Kalra is accused of operating a “pill mill,” meaning his clinic allegedly functioned primarily to dispense opioids such as oxycodone without legitimate medical reasons. He is also charged with issuing over 31,000 prescriptions for oxycodone between January 2019 and February 2025. According to officials, on some days, he wrote more than fifty prescriptions, raising questions about the necessity and appropriateness of such quantities.
The federal case involves five charges in total: three related to illegal distribution of opioids and two connected 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 ten years for each fraud charge. Fines could reach up to $1 million per drug charge and $250,000 or more per fraud offense.
Sexual Exploitation and Patient Abuse Allegations
As part of the investigation, multiple former employees have reported that female patients complained about being touched sexually during medical visits. Allegations also include Kalra soliciting sexual favors, including oral sex and other acts, in exchange for prescriptions. One patient has accused him of sexual assault, claiming that she was forced into anal sex during a clinical appointment.
Authorities highlight a pattern of misconduct, with Kalra allegedly demanding sexual favors from female patients as a condition for obtaining opioid prescriptions. The allegations describe a disturbing abuse of power and highlight ongoing concerns about patient safety and trust in healthcare providers.
Healthcare Fraud and Record Manipulation
In addition to drug-related charges, Kalra is accused of healthcare fraud involving billing for services that did not occur. Evidence indicates he billed Medicaid for consultations and counseling sessions that he never provided. Furthermore, detailed records include fabricated progress notes with identical content for different patients and no vital signs recorded, indicating an effort to falsify medical documentation and fraudulently obtain reimbursements.
Incarceration and Restrictions
Kalra has been placed under home arrest, with restrictions placed on his ability to practice medicine and prescribe medication. He is also required to close his medical practice during the legal proceedings, pending a trial that could take months or years to resolve.
Statements and Legal Context
The U.S. Attorney’s office described Kalra’s activities as a significant breach of medical ethics and an abuse of trust. The case exemplifies how some healthcare professionals misuse their licenses for personal gain, including financial profit and sexual exploitation, at the expense of patient health and safety.
This case signals ongoing efforts by authorities to combat illegal opioid distribution and address misconduct within the healthcare system, emphasizing the importance of oversight and accountability for licensed practitioners.
As the legal process unfolds, authorities continue to investigate potential further misconduct and look to prevent similar cases in the future, stressing the need for vigilance against abuse of medical authority and fraudulent practices.
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