News Summary
Ritesh Kalra, an internist in New Jersey, has been charged with operating a pill mill, unlawfully prescribing opioids in exchange for sexual favors. Investigations revealed he issued over 31,000 prescriptions, raised numerous concerns regarding the legitimacy of his practice, including unauthorized billing and inappropriate behavior towards female patients. Facing multiple counts of drug distribution and healthcare fraud, authorities have halted his medical practice pending trial.
Secaucus, New Jersey – Ritesh Kalra, a 51-year-old internist of Indian descent, is facing serious legal accusations for allegedly operating a “pill mill.” Authorities have charged him with unlawfully prescribing opioids in exchange for sexual favors and engaging in fraudulent activities with New Jersey’s healthcare program.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s office, Kalra allegedly issued over 31,000 prescriptions for opioids such as oxycodone between January 2019 and February 2025. Some days, he reportedly wrote as many as 50 prescriptions, raising concerns about the legitimacy of his practice. The prescriptions primarily consisted of high-dose opioids and promethazine with codeine, both of which are known to carry a substantial risk of addiction and misuse.
Kalra faces a five-count complaint comprising three counts of unauthorized distribution of controlled substances and two counts of healthcare fraud. Reports indicate that he incorrectly billed the state Medicaid program for consultations and counseling sessions that were never conducted. Investigators found fabricated medical records that exhibited identical progress notes and neglected vital signs, suggesting an absence of legitimate medical justification for the numerous prescriptions issued.
Previous employees of Kalra’s clinic have alleged disturbing behaviors, claiming that female patients reported inappropriate contact and that he solicited sexual favors in return for prescription medications. One patient described experiencing repeated sexual assaults during her appointments, including being forced into sexual acts against her will.
Remarkably, allegations emerged that Kalra continued to prescribe opioids to at least one patient who was incarcerated, despite having no contact with them. This aspect of the investigation underscores the extent of the purported malpractice involved in his practice.
Kalra made his initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge, after which he was placed under house arrest following the payment of a $100,000 unsecured bond. Authorities have since ordered him to halt all medical practice activities and to close his clinic while the case proceeds through the legal system. Should he be found guilty, Kalra faces significant penalties, including up to 20 years in prison for each count of illegal drug distribution and up to a decade for each count of healthcare fraud.
In response to the accusations, Kalra’s legal representation has denied any wrongdoing. The attorney involved described the government’s allegations as unfounded and sensationalized, maintaining that the claims do not accurately represent Kalra’s conduct.
Adding to the medical and legal scrutiny surrounding Kalra, historical employment records reveal that he was previously mandated to pay $12,000 in wages to a former employee due to issues relating to non-payment. This history raises further questions about the overall management and ethical practices within his clinic.
The case against Ritesh Kalra has drawn considerable attention, highlighting significant concerns over the prescription of opioids and the associated risks of addiction and exploitation in healthcare settings. As the legal process unfolds, further details may emerge that could have profound implications for Kalra, his patients, and the broader medical community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Jersey Doctor Charged with Opioid Distribution and Fraud
Local Doctor Charged with Illegal Opioid Prescriptions
New Jersey Physician Charged with Medical Fraud and Assault
Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud in New Jersey
Doctor Charged with Opioid Distribution and Patient Exploitation
Additional Resources
- Hindustan Times
- Wikipedia: Opioid crisis
- NY Daily News
- Google Search: Ritesh Kalra
- NJ.com
- Google Scholar: medical fraud
- PIX11 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: healthcare fraud
- Times of India
- Google News: sexual exploitation in medicine
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee 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 Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
