A California judge has dismissed attempted murder charges against a Pasadena radiologist who drove his family off a cliff, after he successfully completed a court-ordered mental health program.
San Mateo County Superior Court Judge Susan Cho dismissed three counts of attempted murder against Dharmesh Patel on Monday, following his completion of a two-year mental health diversion program.
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Patel, 45, was accused of intentionally driving his Tesla Model Y off a 250-foot cliff at Devil's Slide on January 2, 2023, with his wife and two children inside.
First responders rescued the family from the wreckage, with Patel, his wife, and one child sustaining serious injuries.
Officials described the survival as a miracle.
Psychologists testified that Patel suffered a psychotic break caused by major depressive disorder with hallucinations.
That testimony led a judge in 2024 to grant him entry into the treatment program instead of facing trial.
San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe opposed the diversion but acknowledged the court was legally bound to dismiss the case once Patel fulfilled all medical conditions.
"The judge was required by the law to dismiss the charges," Wagstaffe said.
Wagstaffe expressed frustration, noting that Patel avoids a criminal record and probation despite the severity of the incident.
"If the person who's given mental health diversion follows the treatment plan, there's nothing that can be done and at the end of the two years he gets it wiped out of his record," Wagstaffe said.
