New Jersey Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud and Assault

An illustration emphasizing the importance of ethical standards in healthcare practices.

News Summary

A doctor in New Jersey has been charged with medical fraud, sexual assault, and prescription misconduct. Ritesh Kalra allegedly distributed opioids illegally and solicited sexual favors from patients in exchange for prescriptions. He is under home arrest and barred from practicing medicine. Investigations revealed a ‘pill mill’ operation, with over 31,000 illegal prescriptions issued during a specific period. The case raises significant concerns about unethical medical practices and patient safety.

Fair Lawn, New Jersey – A 51-year-old doctor, Ritesh Kalra, has been charged with multiple counts of medical fraud, sexual assault, and prescription misconduct in New Jersey. The allegations include distributing opioids without a legitimate medical purpose and soliciting sexual favors from female patients in exchange for opioid prescriptions. Kalra is currently under home arrest, barred from practicing medicine or prescribing any medications, and is required to shut down his medical practice as legal proceedings unfold.

The charges come after investigations revealed that Kalra operated a “pill mill” out of his clinic in Fair Lawn, where he reportedly prescribed high doses of opioids like oxycodone and promethazine with codeine without medical justification. Specifically, between January 2019 and February 2025, he is accused of issuing over 31,000 prescriptions for oxycodone, with reports of him writing more than 50 prescriptions in a single day.

Kalra is also facing accusations related to defrauding New Jersey Medicaid by submitting false claims for medical visits that never occurred. Court documents indicate that his electronic records contained fabricated progress notes that were identical across patient files and notably lacked critical medical details, including vital signs. In particular, investigators discovered that Kalra continued to prescribe medications to an incarcerated patient at the Essex County Correctional Facility without any direct medical contact with the individual.

Allegations of sexual misconduct against Kalra extend further, with former employees reporting that female patients frequently complained about inappropriate touching and requests for sexual favors, including oral sex. One patient has claimed that she was sexually assaulted multiple times during appointments, including being coerced into anal sex. This exploitation of vulnerable patients raises serious concerns about Kalra’s practice and adherence to ethical medical standards.

Kalra’s actions have drawn strong condemnation from authorities. U.S. Attorney Alina Habba emphasized that physicians hold an integral responsibility in society, and Kalra’s alleged misuse of his position to fuel addiction and exploit patients is unacceptable. The motivation behind his actions reportedly included not only personal gain but also a blatant disregard for the well-being of those he was meant to treat.

If convicted, Kalra could face severe penalties, including up to 20 years in prison for each count of illegal drug distribution and up to 10 years for health care fraud. Additionally, he could incur financial penalties of up to $1 million for each drug charge and $250,000 or more for each fraud charge.

Kalra’s case has captured significant media attention as it highlights ongoing concerns regarding opioid misuse, unethical medical practices, and the safeguarding of patient rights in the healthcare system. Efforts to investigate and hold accountable those who exploit vulnerable individuals in medical settings remain a priority for law enforcement agencies and public health advocates alike.

This ongoing legal case will continue to unfold, with the potential for additional revelations regarding both Kalra’s practice and the wider implications of medical misconduct within the healthcare community. As the proceedings progress, it is crucial for regulators to ensure strict adherence to medical ethics and patient care standards to prevent further instances of abuse and fraud.