A 34-year-old gastroenterologist formerly employed by New York-Presbyterian Queens Hospital faces further legal action as new charges have been levied against him, involving allegations of sexual assault against patients and others.
The latest indictment on Thursday, March 14 comes after a 48-year-old woman reported being sexually abused by Zhi Alan Cheng under sedation during a procedure at the hospital in November 2021.
Cheng, who appeared in Queens Supreme Court, was arraigned for the third time, indicating the expanding scope of accusations against him. These allegations span from June 2021 to May 2022, during which he is accused of sexually assaulting hospital patients and filming the attacks. Cheng pleaded not guilty to the new charges, which include first and second-degree sexual abuse. He remains in custody.
The charges against Cheng now encompass 61 counts relating to sexual assault and unlawful surveillance, targeting six women.
Allegations have also surfaced about Cheng’s conduct in his Queens apartment, where he is accused of drugging and sexually abusing four women between 2020 and 2022.
Cheng’s initial arrest in December 2022 was precipitated by allegations from a female acquaintance, leading to the discovery of videos showing Cheng assaulting her and other women. Subsequent investigations revealed a stash of drugs and anesthetics at Cheng’s home, along with numerous recordings of the alleged assaults.
Assistant District Attorney Matthew Regan identified Cheng in court proceedings, while Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz highlighted the severity of the accusations, portraying Cheng as a serial predator exploiting vulnerable women. Nicholas Liakas, representing several alleged victims, expressed concerns that more people might come forward, shedding light on potential oversight and failures by New York-Presbyterian Queens Hospital to address early warnings and complaints effectively.
In response to the growing accusations, New York-Presbyterian Queens Hospital expressed deep regret over the ordeal faced by the victims and reiterated its commitment to cooperating with law enforcement and health authorities.
Cheng’s medical license was suspended following his arrest, and he faces multiple sentences, each potentially spanning 25 years to life in prison if convicted.
The revelations about Cheng’s actions have prompted a broader examination of hospital protocols and patient safety measures, with several victims coming forward to share their experiences. The Queens District Attorney’s office has encouraged any additional victims to reach out, ensuring that all allegations are thoroughly investigated.
