New Jersey Doctor Charged With Trading Opioids for Sexual Favors and Defrauding Medicaid

Dr. Ritesh Kalra of Fair Lawn faces federal charges for allegedly operating a high-volume pill mill, sexually exploiting patients, and billing Medicaid for fabricated visits.

A Fair Lawn-based physician has been charged with distributing opioids without a legitimate medical purpose, soliciting sexual acts from patients in exchange for prescriptions, and defrauding New Jersey Medicaid, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Alina Habba.

Dr. Ritesh Kalra, 51, of Secaucus, New Jersey, was named in a five-count federal complaint that includes three counts of illegal opioid distribution and two counts of healthcare fraud. Kalra appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge André M. Espinosa in Newark federal court and was released under home incarceration and a $100,000 unsecured bond. As part of his release conditions, Kalra is barred from practicing medicine, prescribing medications, or operating his medical practice while the case is pending.

“Physicians hold a position of profound responsibility—but as alleged, Dr. Kalra used that position to fuel addiction, exploit vulnerable patients for sex, and defraud New Jersey’s public healthcare program. By allegedly exchanging prescriptions for sexual favors and billing Medicaid for ghost appointments, he not only violated the law but endangered lives. Our Office will continue to pursue those who turn their medical licenses into tools for personal gain and sexual gratification.” - U.S. Attorney Alina Habba

According to court documents and statements made during the proceedings, Kalra allegedly operated a “pill mill” from his Fair Lawn office. Federal authorities allege that between January 2019 and February 2025, Kalra issued over 31,000 prescriptions for oxycodone, often writing 50 or more prescriptions in a single day. He also frequently prescribed promethazine with codeine, another controlled substance with abuse potential.

Several of Kalra’s former employees reported that multiple female patients had complained of sexual misconduct, including allegations that Kalra demanded oral sex and other sexual acts in return for opioid prescriptions. One patient claimed Kalra sexually assaulted her during appointments, including forced anal intercourse. Another patient reportedly received continued prescriptions from Kalra while incarcerated, despite having no in-person contact with him.

"This investigation, conducted by the FBI and our partners, illustrates that Dr. Kalra had little regard for actually taking care of his patients. As alleged, he instead used them for his sexual gratification and, in the process, defrauded the state of New Jersey," stated Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy.

Federal investigators also allege that Kalra submitted fraudulent claims to New Jersey Medicaid, billing for in-person appointments and counseling sessions that never occurred. His electronic medical records were found to include identical examination notes across visits and fabricated service dates, with many records lacking basic clinical details such as vital signs.

If convicted, Kalra faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine for each count of illegal drug distribution. Each healthcare fraud charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or twice the amount of financial loss caused by the offense.

"Rather than offering help, Dr. Kalra exploited his victims at their most vulnerable—using opioids as leverage in exchange for sexual favors—further deepening their addiction and worsening the crisis,” stated DEA New York Special Agent in Charge Frank Tarentino.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine M. Romano and Jessica R. Ecker of the Health Care Fraud and Opioids Enforcement Unit in Newark.

The investigation involved multiple federal and local agencies, including the FBI, DEA, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, and the Fair Lawn Police Department.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasized that the charges are accusations and that Kalra is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Individuals who believe they may have been victimized by Dr. Kalra or have relevant information are encouraged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or email NK-Victim-Assistance@fbi.gov.