Memphis, July 31, 2025
News Summary
Chief U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman has been appointed to oversee the case of Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, facing 36 federal charges including healthcare fraud and coercion. The allegations detail serious misconduct, including unnecessary medical procedures and misuse of medical devices. As legal proceedings continue, Kumar’s clinic remains temporarily closed, and he potentially faces severe penalties if convicted. The situation has drawn significant media attention, raising concerns over patient safety in the community.
MEMPHIS
A new judge, Chief U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman, has been assigned to oversee the case of Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, a physician from East Memphis who faces multiple federal charges. The United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee confirmed this transfer of the case on July 28, 2025. Dr. Kumar is under indictment with a total of 36 federal charges, which include serious allegations of healthcare fraud and the coercion of individuals into sexual acts.
The allegations against Dr. Kumar encompass conducting unnecessary medical procedures and the reuse of single-use medical devices without proper cleaning or disinfection. Each of these charges carries significant potential penalties; he faces a maximum of 20 years in prison for the sexual offenses and similar penalties for healthcare fraud and the misuse of medical devices.
Dr. Kumar has denied any wrongdoing. His attorney argues that the reopening of his clinic allows patients the autonomy to choose their healthcare provider, despite the ongoing legal issues. This clinic, which specializes in gynecologic oncology and high-risk pelvic surgery, offers services that are not readily available within a 200-mile radius of Memphis.
In April 2025, the state of Tennessee issued a report that prohibits Dr. Kumar from prescribing Schedule II drugs while his case is active. The clinic had previously been closed but is anticipated to reopen under specific conditions as the legal proceedings continue. However, as of July 29, 2025, the clinic remains temporarily closed according to its listing on Google.
The case has gained considerable media attention, affecting public perception of Dr. Kumar. With several women alleging coercion and unnecessary procedures performed without proper informed consent, the gravity of the lawsuit is evident. Some claims were reported to have been submitted to Medicare and Medicaid based on falsified symptoms, indicating potential fraudulent activities.
As of now, a new trial date has yet to be set following the transfer of the case to Chief Judge Lipman. This case is significant, not only because of its implications for Dr. Kumar’s medical practice but also due to the broader concerns regarding patient safety and ethical medical practices. The community is keenly observing how the legal proceedings will unfold for this specialized physician held in such serious allegations.
Key Facts
- New Judge: Chief U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman
- Indictment: 36 federal charges including healthcare fraud, coercion, and misuse of medical devices
- Potential penalties: Up to 20 years in prison for sexual offenses
- Patients allowed to choose their healthcare provider despite allegations
- Clinic’s status: Temporarily closed as of July 29, 2025
Charges Overview
| Charge Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Healthcare Fraud | Submitting falsified claims to insurance programs based on non-existent symptoms |
| Coercion | Alleged coercion of women into sexual acts |
| Unnecessary Procedures | Conducting medical procedures not deemed necessary by standard medical practices |
| Improper Device Use | Reusing single-use medical devices without proper sanitation |
FAQ
What is Dr. Sanjeev Kumar charged with?
Dr. Kumar is facing multiple federal charges, including healthcare fraud, coercion of women into sexual acts, conducting unnecessary medical procedures, and reusing single-use medical devices without proper cleaning.
Who is overseeing Dr. Kumar’s case?
The case is now being presided over by Chief U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman.
What is the status of Dr. Kumar’s medical practice?
His clinic, which provides specialized medical services, is currently listed as temporarily closed, although it may reopen under certain conditions.
What penalties does Dr. Kumar potentially face?
If convicted, Dr. Kumar faces a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison for each serious offense, such as those related to sexual misconduct and healthcare fraud.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WREG: New Judge Transferred to Case
- Google Search: Dr. Sanjeev Kumar
- Eastern Progress: New Judge Takes Over Case
- Wikipedia: Healthcare Fraud
- Local Memphis: Memphis Doctor Indicted
- Google News: Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Case
- Fox 13 Memphis: More Charges for Indicted Gynecologist
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Safety
- Action News 5: Trial Set for Memphis Doctor
- Google Scholar: Healthcare Fraud Case
