News Summary
Dr. Ritesh Kalra, a Secaucus-based physician of Indian origin, faces serious federal charges including unlawful opioid prescribing and sexual exploitation. Allegations suggest he misused his medical authority, issuing over 31,000 prescriptions without proper justification while also soliciting sexual favors in exchange for prescriptions. The case raises alarming concerns regarding patient safety and healthcare fraud, showcasing the ongoing opioid epidemic in the U.S. Kalra has been placed under home detention with his medical license suspended as investigations continue.
Secaucus, New Jersey – Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Unlawful Opioid Prescribing and Sexual Exploitation
The United States authorities have charged Dr. Ritesh Kalra, a 51-year-old physician of Indian origin residing in Secaucus, New Jersey, with multiple serious federal crimes including unlawful opioid prescribing, health care fraud, and sexual exploitation of patients. The case highlights concerns over abuse of medical authority and the opioid epidemic affecting many communities.
Details of the Charges
Following a recent court hearing, Dr. Kalra has been placed under home detention with an unsecured bond of $100,000. His medical license has been suspended as a result of the allegations. Prosecutors accuse him of leveraging his position as a healthcare provider to exploit patients, especially those suffering from addiction, by issuing excessive prescriptions for opioids without legitimate medical justification.
Specifically, Dr. Kalra is alleged to have issued > 31,000 prescriptions for oxycodone between January 2019 and February 2025. These prescriptions reportedly lacked proper medical necessity, raising concerns about abuse and diversion of potent narcotics. The authorities emphasize that these actions contributed to the ongoing public health crisis related to opioid misuse.
Sexual Exploitation and Patient Abuse
In addition to drug distribution, Dr. Kalra faces serious accusations of sexual misconduct. Prosecutors allege that he solicited sexual favors, including oral sex, from female patients in exchange for prescriptions for opioids. One female patient reported that she was coerced into engaging in anal sex during a medical appointment, raising grave concerns about patient safety and misconduct.
Another patient revealed that Dr. Kalra prescribed opioids while the individual was incarcerated at the Essex County Correctional Facility. The patient stated there was no communication between them at that time, suggesting potential fraudulent or improper prescribing practices.
Health Care Fraud and Dishonest Practices
The indictment also includes allegations of health care fraud. Investigators found evidence of billing for ghost appointments, which are visits that never took place. Court documents reveal that Dr. Kalra’s electronic medical records contained fabricated progress notes with identical content across different patient files and lacked essential data such as vital signs. These irregularities point to deliberate attempts to conceal fraudulent billing and unlawful activity.
Legal Penalties and Ongoing Investigation
Dr. Kalra faces five federal charges: three related to illegal drug distribution and two linked to health care fraud. Each drug distribution count could result in a maximum 20-year prison sentence, while each health care fraud count could lead to up to 10 years in prison and significant fines. The case continues to be investigated by federal authorities, including the FBI.
Community and Victim Support
The FBI has issued a call for any individuals who may have been victims or who have relevant information related to Dr. Kalra’s activities to come forward. Authorities emphasize the importance of community cooperation in ensuring justice and addressing the abuses committed by the physician.
Background Context
Dr. Ritesh Kalra’s case underscores larger issues within the healthcare system, including concerns over prescription drug abuse and the exploitation of vulnerable patients. State and federal officials are working to strengthen oversight and prevent similar misconduct by healthcare providers in the future. The suspension of his medical license reflects regulatory efforts to maintain professional standards and protect patient safety amid ongoing investigations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Jersey Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud and Assault
Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud and Misconduct
Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud and Abuse
Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Sexual Exploitation and Fraud
Local Doctor Charged with Opioid Distribution and Misconduct
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 WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, 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 regional 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 National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
