Federal Indictment Against New Jersey Doctor for Opioid Fraud

News Summary

Dr. Ritesh Kalra, a New Jersey internist, has been indicted for allegedly illegally prescribing opioids and committing healthcare fraud. The indictment claims he traded powerful painkillers for sexual favors from vulnerable patients and billed for fictitious consultations. Prosecutors deem his practice a ‘pill mill,’ with more than 31,000 opioid prescriptions issued. Following the indictment, Dr. Kalra has been released under home incarceration while facing serious legal consequences that highlight the ongoing opioid crisis and unethical medical practices.

Secaucus, New Jersey — A federal indictment has been filed against Dr. Ritesh Kalra, a 51-year-old internist, focusing on serious allegations of illegally prescribing opioids and committing healthcare fraud. The doctor, who has been practicing in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, is accused of trading powerful painkillers, such as oxycodone and promethazine with codeine, for sexual favors from patients, many of whom are considered vulnerable.

According to federal prosecutors, Dr. Kalra’s practice operated as what is being termed a “pill mill”. Over a span from January 2019 to February 2025, he allegedly issued more than 31,000 prescriptions for oxycodone, with some reports indicating he wrote over 50 prescriptions in a single day. This extensive distribution of opioids is under scrutiny not only for its legality but also for its ethical implications, as the prescriptions were purportedly given under dubious circumstances.

In addition to the charges related to drug distribution, Dr. Kalra faces accusations of billing for fictitious consultations and counseling sessions, further complicating his legal situation. This aspect of the allegations points to a broader pattern of deceit, potentially defrauding both patients and the healthcare system at large. US Attorney Alina Habba stated that Dr. Kalra exploited his medical position, contributing to the ongoing opioid crisis while profiting from the suffering of others.

Following the indictment, Dr. Kalra made a court appearance before a magistrate judge in Newark. He has been released under home incarceration, secured by an unsecured bond of $100,000. Part of his bail conditions includes a suspension of all medical practice activities until the case’s resolution. This restriction aims to mitigate any risk of further illegal activity during the pendency of his legal troubles.

The charges against Dr. Kalra come amidst a larger national trend where healthcare professionals have found themselves implicated in the misuse of opioid prescriptions and exploitation of patients, particularly in vulnerable situations. The opioid crisis continues to be a pressing issue in the United States, and cases like Dr. Kalra’s spotlight the severe consequences of unethical medical practices in the field.

Kalra’s attorney, Michael Baldassare, has suggested that the allegations may be overstated and compared the government’s announcement to the sensational reporting typical of supermarket tabloids. This statement reflects an ongoing defense strategy that aims to challenge the allegations on the basis of their presentation. However, such a defense may not provide a strong enough counter to the serious nature of the charges filed against him.

As the case unfolds, the impact of Dr. Kalra’s actions could reverberate throughout the community and the healthcare industry. Federal authorities are increasingly vigilant about enforcing regulations designed to combat the illegal distribution of opioids. The outcome of this case may serve as a pivotal example of the legal ramifications involved when medical professionals breach their ethical responsibilities and endanger the health of their patients.

Dr. Kalra’s upcoming court dates will be highly anticipated, as they promise to illuminate further details surrounding these significant allegations of prescription misconduct and fraudulent healthcare practices.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Doctor Charged with Unlawfully Prescribing Opioids and Exploitation
Physician Faces Charges for Medical Fraud and Sexual Assault
Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud and Sexual Exploitation
New Jersey Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud and Exploitation
Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Sexual Exploitation and Fraud
Indian-origin Doctor Charged with Opioid Distribution and Fraud

Additional Resources

• Indian Express
• Times of India
• NBC New York
• CBS News
• Wikipedia: Opioid Epidemic