News Summary
Dr. Ritesh Kalra, a physician from Secaucus, New Jersey, faces serious charges including unlawful opioid prescribing and sexual exploitation of patients. Allegations indicate that he coerced female patients into sexual acts in exchange for prescriptions, leading to his medical license suspension. Kalra has been charged with five federal offenses and is currently under home detention. The FBI is seeking public assistance for further information regarding the case as the investigation continues, shedding light on broader issues within healthcare practices.
Secaucus, New Jersey
Dr. Ritesh Kalra, a 51-year-old Indian-origin physician, has been charged with unlawful opioid prescribing and sexual exploitation of his patients. The allegations suggest that Kalra exploited his position to prey on individuals battling addiction, subjected female patients to sexual demands in exchange for prescriptions, and engaged in fraudulent practices.
Following a recent court hearing, Kalra was placed under home detention with an unsecured $100,000 bond. In response to the charges, his medical license has been suspended, reflecting the serious nature of the accusations against him. The legal actions against Kalra stem from multiple disturbing allegations made by patients and investigations conducted by authorities.
Details of the Allegations
Federal prosecutors allege that between January 2019 and February 2025, Kalra prescribed over 31,000 opioid prescriptions for medications like oxycodone, often without legitimate medical reasons. Reports indicate that he coerced female patients into sexual acts, including demands for oral sex and even more invasive acts during medical appointments.
One disturbing allegation suggests that a patient was forced to engage in anal sex during a consultation. Additionally, there is a claim that Kalra continued to prescribe opioids to a patient incarcerated at the Essex County Correctional Facility without any direct communication. These accusations highlight a history of exploitation that has raised significant concerns among authorities.
Fraudulent Practices Uncovered
In addition to the sexual exploitation charges, Kalra is implicated in healthcare fraud. Allegations include billing for ghost appointments—medical visits that never occurred. Investigations revealed that his electronic medical records contained fabricated progress notes, which were identical across different patient files and lacked essential medical data such as vital signs. These actions not only compromise patient safety but also violate the integrity of the healthcare system.
Attorney Alina Habba, representing the prosecution, emphasized the profound responsibility healthcare providers have and criticized Kalra for allegedly using his medical license to fuel addiction and exploit vulnerable patients while defrauding New Jersey’s public healthcare program.
Potential Legal Consequences
Kalra faces a total of five federal charges: three related to illegal drug distribution and two for healthcare fraud. Each count of illegal drug distribution may lead to a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, while the healthcare fraud charges could result in an additional 10 years in prison and substantial fines. If convicted, the implications for Kalra could be severe, affecting both his freedom and professional life.
Call for Public Assistance
The FBI is currently seeking assistance from the public. They encourage anyone who may have fallen victim to Dr. Kalra’s alleged actions or who possesses additional information regarding the case to come forward. This appeal underlines the seriousness of the situation and the ongoing investigation aimed at protecting patients and ensuring justice.
Conclusion
As the case against Dr. Ritesh Kalra unfolds, it underscores the pressing issues related to opioid prescription practices, patient exploitation, and healthcare fraud. The charges against him reflect broader challenges faced by the medical community, emphasizing the need for vigilance and accountability in the prescribing of controlled substances.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Jersey Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud and Misconduct
Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud and Exploitation
Doctor Faces Charges for Medical Fraud and Exploitation
New Jersey Doctor Charged with Sexual Misconduct and Fraud
Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Opioid Distribution and Fraud
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 CLEVELAND WRITER
CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga 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 Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.
