Former Queens Doctor Sentenced 24 Years for Sexual Assaults

Zhi Alan Cheng, a former gastroenterologist at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, was sentenced to 24 years in prison followed by 10 years of post-release supervision after pleading guilty to raping and sexually abusing unconscious women, including patients and acquaintances. Cheng used medical-grade sedatives to render victims unconscious and recorded the assaults on video, which was key evidence in his conviction. Despite the lengthy sentence, some victims' representatives feel justice was not fully served and have criticized the hospital's handling of the situation. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz acknowledged the severity of Cheng's crimes and highlighted the efforts of the Special Victims Bureau and NYPD in securing the conviction. Cheng’s medical license has been suspended, and he is required to register as a sex offender for life upon release. The case exposes serious breaches of trust in healthcare and underscores the importance of safeguarding patients' safety and dignity.