Queens Doctor Pleads Guilty to Multiple Rapes, Sexual Abuse

Dr. Zhi Alan Cheng, a 35-year-old gastroenterologist from Astoria, pleaded guilty to multiple counts of rape and sexual abuse involving both acquaintances and unconscious female patients at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens Hospital and his apartment. Arrested in December 2022 after a victim discovered videos of assaults, investigations uncovered numerous digital devices containing recordings of Cheng sexually abusing sedated patients and acquaintances, along with confiscated drugs used for sedation and recreational substances. He faced over 50 counts initially and additional charges after another victim came forward, with his medical license suspended and employment terminated. Cheng admitted to filming these assaults between 2020 and 2022 and is expected to be sentenced to 24 years in prison in August 2024. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz condemned Cheng’s actions, emphasizing the betrayal of his medical oath, and expressed hope that the guilty plea will aid victims' healing. This case adds to ongoing scrutiny and legal actions against physicians accused of sexual abuse, including a recent $750 million settlement by New York-Presbyterian for abuse claims against another doctor.