A prominent gastroenterologist from Queens, Dr. Zhi Alan Cheng, has been charged with a series of sexual assaults, including drugging, raping, and filming the assaults of several women, some of whom were his patients at New York-Presbyterian Queens Hospital. The charges were announced by the Queens District Attorney’s office and include 50 new counts brought against Cheng.
DETAILS OF THE CHARGES
Cheng was initially arrested on December 27, 2020, for drugging and raping a female acquaintance. The new charges stem from an investigation that began when the victim discovered videos of Cheng assaulting her and other women.
The evidence includes videos of Cheng assaulting unconscious hospital patients and acquaintances, as well as possession of drugs like propofol, sevoflurane, fentanyl, ketamine, and LSD. The charges include rape, unlawful surveillance, and criminal possession of a controlled substance.
Cheng has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and his attorney, Jeffrey Lichtman, has stated they intend to fight them. Cheng has been held without bail and placed on suicide watch since his arrest.
NEW YORK-PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL’S RESPONSE
New York-Presbyterian has condemned Cheng’s actions, describing them as a “fundamental betrayal” of trust. Cheng was placed off duty and terminated as soon as the allegations were made known in December 2022.
LAWSUITS AGAINST NEW YORK-PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL
One of Cheng’s alleged victims is suing New York-Presbyterian Queens, claiming the hospital was aware of the assault and conspired to cover it up. The suit alleges that the hospital failed to inform the police, collect forensic evidence, or offer support services to the victim. Cheng was not fired or suspended after the incident.
The hospital system has been accused of ignoring complaints about doctors assaulting patients. Previous lawsuits were filed against New York-Presbyterian for similar issues, including Herman Law’s class action complaint for sexual assault abuse and assault perpetrated by Dr. Robert Hadden.
The charges against Dr. Cheng highlight a deeply troubling case of abuse and betrayal of trust within the medical community. The allegations have raised serious questions about the hospital’s handling of the situation and its responsibility to protect patients.
The case continues to unfold, with Cheng’s next court date set for September 19, 2023. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz has urged potential victims to come forward, and the hospital has stated that it has reviewed its patient safety practices and implemented additional training for its staff.
For legal support or inquiries related to this case, please contact Herman Law, a firm dedicated to providing comprehensive legal services and committed to the pursuit of justice.
Our firm handles sexual assault claims against doctors, nurses, hospitals, and other medical professionals. Please contact our team for a confidential consultation about matters specific to your situation.
