Dr. Dharmesh Patel, accused of deliberately driving his Tesla off Devil’s Slide in Pacifica with his wife and two children inside, appeared in court on Friday. Patel’s attorneys requested a mental health diversion, stating that he suffers from major depressive disorder. Patel had already pleaded not guilty to attempted murder, attributing the incident to tire issues with the Tesla.
Patel’s wife allegedly informed first responders that he had intentionally driven off the cliff. Despite the severity of the incident, everyone within the Tesla survived the crash.
The court will reconvene at the end of the month, setting a date for a hearing to decide Patel’s eligibility for the diversion program. If granted, this could see Patel’s criminal proceedings suspended while he engages in mental health treatment.
As of now, Patel remains in custody without bail. The case highlights the intricate ties between mental health and the legal system, underscoring the need for appropriate support structures for those dealing with mental health issues.