By Tiffany Williams –
A former Queens doctor has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for sexually assaulting patients and acquaintances, with an additional 10 years of post-release supervision and a lifetime requirement to register as a sex offender.
Zhi Alan Cheng, 35, of Astoria, a former gastroenterologist at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, pleaded guilty to multiple counts of rape and sexual abuse. Cheng filmed the assaults, which occurred both at the hospital and in his apartment, targeting unconscious victims. In addition to his guilty pleas, he entered an Alford plea to one count of sexual abuse.
“Zhi Alan Cheng committed a series of heinous acts against women,” DA Katz said. “He did so both as a private citizen, sexually assaulting women who were his intimate partners, and as a doctor, sexually assaulting vulnerable patients who came to the hospital in need of help. As a consequence of his crimes, he will serve over two decades in prison, with 10 years of post-release supervision and must register as a sex offender, likely for the rest of his life.” Katz praised the work of her Special Victims Bureau and the NYPD Special Victims Squad, as well as the survivors who came forward.
Cheng was arrested on December 27, 2022, after a female acquaintance reported being raped in his apartment and discovered videos of herself and other victims being assaulted. A subsequent investigation and search of Cheng’s home revealed numerous digital storage devices containing recordings of sexual abuse of unconscious patients and acquaintances.
Queens Supreme Court Justice Ushir Pandit-Durant imposed a determinate sentence of 24 years in prison, followed by 10 years of post-release supervision. Cheng’s medical license has been suspended by the state.
Cheng had initially faced more than 50 counts across multiple indictments for his crimes. Prosecutors said his plea ensures he will be held accountable and prevents further harm to other women.