In one of New York City’s most disturbing medical abuse cases in recent memory, former Queens doctor Zhi Alan Cheng was sentenced to 24 years in prison after pleading guilty to sexually assaulting eight women. While the case has officially reached its conclusion in criminal court, many say that true justice has not been served.
At The Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, we understand that sexual abuse cases are about far more than courtroom outcomes; they are about the courage of survivors, the failures of institutions, and the urgent need for civil accountability. Here’s what you need to know about this plea deal, and what options may still exist for the women harmed.
What Did Dr. Cheng Do?
Zhi Alan Cheng, 35, used his position as a physician at NewYork-Presbyterian/Queens to drug and sexually assault at least eight women between 2021 and 2022. According to court records, Cheng administered medical-grade sedatives to render his victims unconscious before committing sexual acts.
This was not a misunderstanding. It was a calculated abuse of power, trust, and medical authority.
Why Only 24 Years?
Cheng accepted a plea deal from the Queens District Attorney’s Office. Though even the judge in the case acknowledged his crimes “deserved more,” the deal was reportedly struck to spare the victims the trauma of testifying publicly in court.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz stated: “Zhi Alan Cheng committed a series of heinous acts against women... 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.”
But Did Justice Really Happen?
Many survivors, their legal advocates, and the broader public don’t think so.
One civil attorney representing several victims was blunt: “Justice wasn’t served. They’ve been let down. Even the judge acknowledges that 24 years is not enough.”
Victim impact statements read in court described the long-term psychological trauma caused by Cheng’s assaults:
- “Dr. Cheng has taken away my sense of self. I am broken.”
- “My hands shake constantly and I don’t feel safe anywhere.”
- “People like him shouldn’t be free.”
These are not just emotional expressions; they are evidence of profound, ongoing harm. They are why civil lawsuits often remain critical even after criminal sentencing.
Is the Hospital Liable Too?
Absolutely. In cases like this, where the abuse occurred in a medical setting, hospitals can be held responsible under civil law if they failed to properly screen, supervise, or respond to allegations against an employee.
NewYork-Presbyterian/Queens has publicly condemned Cheng’s actions and expressed remorse, but public statements are not accountability. If systemic failures enabled Dr. Cheng’s abuse, the institution itself may face civil litigation.
At The Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, we have successfully taken on major hospitals and institutions in sexual abuse cases. We believe victims have the right to compensation and answers, not just apologies.
Can Victims Still Sue?
Yes. Civil lawsuits can proceed even after a criminal case concludes. These lawsuits can recover damages for:
- Emotional trauma
- Medical and psychological treatment
- Loss of income or career damage
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages to hold institutions accountable
In New York, the statute of limitations for sexual assault claims has been extended and modified in recent years. Victims of sexual abuse should speak with an experienced attorney immediately to understand their rights.
Why Victims Choose Michael “The Bull” Lamonsoff
Michael S. Lamonsoff is a relentless advocate for victims of sexual abuse, institutional negligence, and power-based violence. With over $500 million in verdicts and settlements and a team fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, our firm is built to take on high-profile, high-impact cases.
We don’t just seek compensation. We seek justice. We demand accountability. We prepare every case for trial, because predators—and the systems that protect them—should never be allowed to hide.
If You’ve Been Harmed, Call Us
The plea deal may have closed the criminal chapter, but survivors still have power. They still have legal options. And they still have a right to be heard. Call The Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff for a free, confidential consultation.
You’re not just hiring a lawyer. You’re putting your case in the hands of a fighter. You’re hiring The Bull.
