A San Francisco judge dismissed all charges on Monday against Dharmesh Patel, a 45-year-old radiologist from Pasadena, California, who was accused of attempting to kill his family by driving his Tesla off a 250-foot cliff known as “Devil’s Slide” in January 2023. Patel’s wife and two young children, aged four and seven at the time, survived the crash with injuries. The charges were dropped after Patel completed a two-year mental health diversion program, as required by California law.
Part 1: Immediate Action & Core Facts
A San Mateo County judge dismissed the three attempted murder charges against Patel following his completion of the diversion program, which included treatment with a Stanford University psychiatrist and a family therapist. The program, established in California in 2018 and expanded in 2023, allows certain defendants with mental health conditions to receive treatment instead of facing criminal prosecution. Patel’s defense argued he was experiencing a psychotic break caused by major depressive disorder at the time of the incident.
Part 2: Deeper Dive & Context
Legal and Policy Implications
San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe expressed disappointment with the outcome, stating that the crime was “way too serious” for diversion. Prosecutors had opposed Patel’s entry into the program, arguing that attempted murder should be excluded from eligibility. Wagstaffe and other California district attorneys are now working to amend the law to prevent individuals accused of attempted murder from qualifying for mental health diversion.
Public Safety Concerns
The case has sparked debate over the balance between mental health treatment and public safety. Critics argue that allowing diversion for attempted murder cases could set a dangerous precedent, while supporters emphasize the importance of addressing underlying mental health issues. The incident has also highlighted the growing use of diversion programs in California, which aim to reduce incarceration for individuals with mental illnesses.
Family and Community Impact
Patel’s family, including his wife and two children, survived the crash, which officials described as an “absolute miracle.” The family has since been living with Patel’s parents in Belmont, California, while he completed the diversion program. The long-term effects of the incident on the family remain unclear, as they have largely stayed out of the public eye.
Legislative Response
In response to similar cases, California lawmakers are considering legislation to limit the eligibility of certain violent crimes for mental health diversion programs. The proposed changes aim to ensure that individuals accused of serious offenses, such as attempted murder, face appropriate legal consequences while still receiving necessary mental health treatment.