Queens Doctor Charged with Drugging and Assaulting Patients on Camera

Following his arrest in December on charges of first-degree rape, a Queens-based gastroenterologist was promptly dismissed from his role at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens. Dr. Cheng now confronts an astonishing 50 additional charges. Notably, this medical facility has grappled with a series of abuse cases in recent months. Dr. Darius Paduch, formerly a urologist within the same hospital system, was also apprehended in April under allegations of sexually abusing patients.

Below, the New York personal injury lawyers at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. discuss the case.

Doctor Betrays Trust and Violates Patients on Camera

According to The New York Times reporting, 33-year-old Zhi Alan Cheng has been charged with 50 new counts, including rape, sexual abuse, assault, misdemeanor drug possession, and unlawful possession. While his December arrest stemmed from allegedly drugging a girlfriend and filming a sexual assault at his apartment, the new cases involve similar circumstances with six patients and other women. However, investigators uncovered dozens of videos of Cheng sexually abusing other women at his home and the hospital where he previously worked.

One alleged victim says Cheng put her to sleep during a hospital visit and then subjected her to a medically unnecessary rectal exam.

While the most recent charges stem from the encounters with six identified women and patients, additional videos show assaults on unidentified women at hotel rooms or homes in New York, Las Vegas, San Francisco, and even Thailand.

What is Being Done About the Assaults?

Cheng is held without bail at Rikers Island, facing multiple 25 years to life sentences. His medical license has also been suspended by the state, according to ABC 7 New York.

The Queens District Attorney urges anyone with information about the assaults to come forward by emailing SpecialVictims@queensda.org or calling 718-286-6505. In the meantime, prosecutors continue building a case against Cheng.

At SPBMCC, we believe holding medical professionals accountable for their actions is imperative. Our legal team understands the complex intersection between legal and medical matters, especially in cases where sexual assault can be considered a form of medical malpractice. We stand ready to help you submit a medical malpractice claim.

Sexual Assault is Medical Malpractice

Sexual assault is not only a criminal offense but can also have profound medical implications for survivors. Survivors may face emotional distress, physical injuries, and psychological trauma. This neglect constitutes a breach of the medical standard of care.

Our experienced legal team dedicates themselves to advocating for survivors and their rights. We understand the sensitivity of these cases and approach each one with empathy, respect, and a commitment to seeking justice. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual assault by a medical professional, we encourage you to contact us for a confidential consultation.

Our New York attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. stay up-to-date on local laws and regulations to best serve victims. Please contact our team of attorneys by calling (212) 732-9000.

This article was sourced from multiple outlets, including The New York Times, the NY Post, and ABC7 New York.