Dharmesh A. Patel, the man accused of intentionally driving his family off a cliff in Northern California last year, has been granted mental health treatment instead of facing trial, as per court records.
Patel pleaded not guilty to three counts of attempted murder after the incident involving his Tesla that plunged over 250 feet off a cliff with his wife and two children on January 2, 2023. Fortunately, emergency responders were able to rescue all four individuals from the wreckage.
The decision for mental health diversion was made by Judge Susan M. Jakubowski of the Superior Court in San Mateo County, based on Patel’s diagnosis of “major depressive disorder” which was deemed to have influenced his actions. He will spend a few weeks in jail before being released to his parents’ residence in Belmont, California. While there, he will be closely monitored through GPS tracking and required to check in with the court weekly. Additionally, he is restricted from leaving San Mateo County and must surrender his driver’s license and passport.
The San Mateo County District Attorney, Stephen Wagstaffe, expressed opposition to the diversion program, preferring that Patel face trial for his charges of attempted murder. However, the decision ultimately lies with the court under California law. Efforts to change the laws allowing for such provisions in attempted murder cases have been unsuccessful thus far.
Patel’s attorney, Joshua Bentley, advocated for his client to undergo mental health treatment instead of criminal prosecution, citing his diagnoses of schizoaffective disorder and major depressive disorder. Patel’s wife also voiced her desire for him not to be prosecuted, highlighting the impact of his mental health struggles leading up to the tragic event.
The next court hearing in Patel’s case is set for July 1, where further decisions regarding his treatment and legal proceedings will be discussed. The outcome of this case underscores the complexities of addressing mental health issues within the criminal justice system and the ongoing debates surrounding diversion programs for individuals facing serious charges.