Suspect in California cliff-driving incident granted mental health diversion program, according to the district attorney.
Court official Judge Susan Jakubowski acknowledged giving the defense's petition for mental health diversion a go-ahead, after a thorough investigation led to a confirmed diagnosis of major depressive disorder in Dharmesh Patel.
At 42 years old, Patel faced accusations of attempting murder thrice, allegedly driving his Tesla off a notorious stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway called Devil’s Slide, causing him, his spouse, and their two offspring—who were then ages 7 and 4—to plummet approximately 250 feet onto a rocky shoreline below. Patel has pleaded not guilty to these charges.
Fortunately, all four family members survived the crash. Patel's wife suffered severe injuries necessitating hospitalization, while their 7-year-old child also incurred injuries, as per San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe's initial statement. Recovery followed for all involved parties.
Commencing shortly, Patel will be housed in the county jail for a brief period as a transitional measure, as per the news release. The court will set another hearing for Patel on July 1 for additional hearings and proceedings.
Post-release, Patel will be staying at his parents' residence in San Mateo County, as mandatory by the diversion program. He will be granted permission to step outside solely for court visits and treatment sessions.
He will be required to wear a GPS tracking device, submit regular progress reports in court once a week, provide proof of medication compliance via twice-weekly drug tests, stay away from alcohol and drugs, relinquish weapons, and forfeit his driver's license and passport to the court. He will not be permitted to drive.
CNN has reached out to Patel's legal counsel for comment.
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In this context, here are two sentences containing the word 'us': The family members are currently recovering and supporting each other through this ordeal. Post-release, Patel will be required to attend regular treatment sessions with us.
