News Summary
A New Jersey physician, Ritesh Kalra, has been charged with medical fraud, sexual assault, and prescription misconduct. Allegations include operating a ‘pill mill’ and soliciting sexual favors from vulnerable patients in exchange for opioid prescriptions. Kalra’s actions reportedly led to over 31,000 opioid prescriptions issued without legitimate medical purpose. He is currently under home arrest and unable to practice medicine pending legal proceedings, which could result in significant prison time and fines if convicted.
Fair Lawn, New Jersey – Doctor Faces Multiple Charges of Medical Fraud and Sexual Assault
Ritesh Kalra, a 51-year-old physician based in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, has been charged with serious offenses, including medical fraud, sexual assault, and prescription misconduct. The charges arise from allegations that he operated a “pill mill” and exploited vulnerable female patients for sexual favors in exchange for opioid prescriptions.
Kalra stands accused of distributing opioids without a legitimate medical purpose. Between January 2019 and February 2025, he reportedly issued over 31,000 prescriptions for oxycodone, sometimes issuing more than 50 prescriptions in a single day. He also allegedly prescribed high doses of oxycodone and promethazine with codeine without appropriate medical justification.
The doctor is facing additional charges of defrauding New Jersey Medicaid by submitting false billing for medical visits that did not take place, allegedly generating ghost bills. In light of these accusations, Kalra is currently under home arrest and is prohibited from practicing medicine or prescribing medications. Furthermore, he must cease all operations of his medical practice while legal proceedings are ongoing.
Allegations of Sexual Misconduct
Reports from former employees at Kalra’s practice have revealed troubling accounts from female patients, including claims that he made inappropriate sexual advances. Patients have alleged that Kalra solicited sexual favors, including oral sex, in exchange for prescriptions. One particularly disturbing allegation suggests that a patient was sexually assaulted multiple times during appointments, which included forced acts.
Kalra’s practices reportedly included issuing prescriptions to an incarcerated patient at Essex County Correctional Facility without any medical contact, raising further concerns about his medical conduct. According to court documents, investigators found inconsistencies in his patient records, including fabricated progress notes that failed to reflect essential medical details.
Legal Ramifications
If convicted, Kalra could face significant prison time, with penalties including up to 20 years in prison for each count of illegal drug distribution and up to 10 years for health care fraud. The financial consequences could also be severe, with potential fines reaching up to $1 million per drug charge and at least $250,000 or more for each fraud charge. Such outcomes underscore the grave nature of the allegations against him.
Public Health Impact
The case has drawn attention from officials who emphasize the responsibility held by physicians to prioritize patient health and safety. The accusations against Kalra highlight the dangers posed when medical professionals misuse their authority, as well as the broader implications for public health stemming from the opioid crisis.
U.S. Attorney Alina Habba stated that medical professionals hold a profound responsibility, which Kalra allegedly violated by fostering addiction, exploiting patients, and committing fraud against public healthcare programs. The legal proceedings against him will not only serve to address the specific allegations but also aim to reinforce accountability and standards in the medical profession.
As the case unfolds, it remains a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by patients and the critical importance of ethical practice in medicine. The public and healthcare professionals alike await further developments in this troubling situation, which raises foundational questions about trust and integrity in healthcare.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud and Abuse
New Jersey Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud and Abuse
New Jersey Doctor Charged with Sexual Exploitation and Fraud
Doctor Charged with Opioid Distribution and Patient Exploitation in Newark
Federal Charges Dismissed Against Utah Plastic Surgeon
California and Florida Introduce New Personal Injury Laws
Charges Dismissed Against Utah Plastic Surgeon Amid Controversy
Charges Dismissed Against Utah Plastic Surgeon and Associates
Additional Resources
- NDTV
- Wikipedia: Medical Fraud
- Hindustan Times
- Google Search: Ritesh Kalra medical fraud
- Times of India
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sexual Assault
- DNA India
- Google News: Ritesh Kalra New Jersey
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion 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 Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
