By: Richard L. Smith
A Middlesex County physician is facing serious charges after a state grand jury indicted him on multiple counts of sexual assault, criminal sexual contact, and falsifying medical records, according to a statement released by New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Criminal Justice.
Gurvindra Johal, 57, of Colonia, is accused of sexually assaulting or inappropriately touching several patients during examinations at urgent care centers in Perth Amboy, Newark, and Freehold Township.
The charges include two counts of second-degree sexual assault, 11 counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact, and two fourth-degree offenses related to falsifying or tampering with medical records.
The alleged incidents span three counties — Middlesex, Essex, and Monmouth — and involve multiple victims.
According to the Attorney General’s Office, local prosecutors in each of those counties initially launched the investigations, which were later consolidated and presented to a grand jury by the Division of Criminal Justice.
One of the investigations began after a patient came forward, alleging Johal touched her inappropriately during a visit to an urgent care center in Perth Amboy.
As the investigation widened, additional victims were identified who reported similar conduct at other locations, including more serious allegations of sexual assault.
Officials also allege that Johal submitted false information to an insurance provider and altered medical records to falsely indicate that a medical assistant had been present during one of the examinations.
“Patients should feel safe and respected when they seek medical care,” Attorney General Platkin stated. “We will not tolerate professionals who exploit that trust.”
DCJ Director Theresa Hilton added, “This case underscores the importance of coordination between law enforcement agencies to identify and stop serial offenders who violate professional boundaries across jurisdictions.”
If convicted, Johal faces up to 10 years in prison for each second-degree charge and up to 18 months for each fourth-degree offense.