An abstract depiction of the issues surrounding opioid distribution and healthcare fraud.
Dr. Ritesh Kalra, an internist in New Jersey, has been charged with serious allegations including distributing opioids in exchange for sexual favors and committing healthcare fraud. An investigation revealed he issued over 31,000 opioid prescriptions and submitted false claims to Medicaid. Following his arrest, his medical license has been suspended, and he faces significant penalties if convicted. U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger highlighted the case as a betrayal of trust in the medical profession, particularly amidst the ongoing opioid crisis.
Newark, New Jersey – Dr. Ritesh Kalra, a 51-year-old internist operating in Secaucus and Fair Lawn, New Jersey, has been charged in a federal case involving serious allegations of medical malpractice and opioid distribution. The charges stem from accusations that he exchanged controlled substances for sexual favors and submitted fraudulent claims to the New Jersey Medicaid program.
Following a federal investigation, Kalra is alleged to have participated in an illegal operation that dispensed powerful opioids without legitimate medical purposes. From January 2019 to February 2025, he reportedly issued over 31,000 prescriptions for opioids, including oxycodone and promethazine with codeine, making him the top prescriber of these drugs in New Jersey during the investigation period.
Prosecutors described Kalra as having exploited vulnerable patients by soliciting sexual acts in exchange for prescriptions, taking advantage of those often struggling with addiction. Numerous female patients have come forward, claiming that their access to necessary medications depended on performing sexual favors, even when they were under the influence of drugs. In one particular case, a patient reported that Kalra provided her with a prescription after she complied with his demands in a locked examination room.
In addition to charges of illegal drug distribution, Kalra faces accusations of committing healthcare fraud by submitting false claims to the Medicaid program. Investigators revealed that he billed for medical appointments that never occurred, often relying on fabricated patient notes with copied vital signs. Some claims were even made for patients who were incarcerated at the times they were supposedly receiving care.
On July 18, federal authorities executed an arrest warrant on Kalra, leading to his arraignment in a Newark court. He faces a total of five charges; three for the illegal distribution of controlled substances and two for healthcare fraud. Following his arrest, Kalra was placed under home incarceration on a $100,000 unsecured bond, alongside restrictions barring him from practicing medicine or prescribing medications.
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger expressed condemnation toward Kalra’s actions, highlighting the betrayal of trust between a doctor and patient, particularly given the opioid crisis affecting many individuals in the community. If found guilty, Kalra faces a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine for each count of drug distribution, alongside potential sentences of up to 10 years and a $250,000 fine for each healthcare fraud charge.
This case is part of a wider federal initiative targeting healthcare fraud, which has led to the arrest of 324 individuals nationwide, including nearly 100 licensed medical professionals. The initiative has sought to address complex fraud schemes that resulted in over $14.6 billion in intended financial losses. Investigative efforts are ongoing, involving the FBI, DEA, Department of Health and Human Services, as well as state authorities.
As a result of these developments, Kalra’s medical license has been suspended, and his clinics are now closed. Authorities are urging individuals who may have been patients of Kalra or who have relevant information regarding the case to contact law enforcement. This situation highlights the critical importance of ensuring the integrity of the medical profession and protecting vulnerable patients from exploitation.
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