In a significant legal development unfolding in San Mateo County, California, Dr. Dharmesh Arvind Patel, a former physician facing three counts of attempted murder charges for deliberately driving a Tesla off a 250-foot cliff in an attempt to kill his family, has been granted admission into a two-year mental health treatment diversion program by Judge Susan M. Jakubowski.

The ruling, issued on Monday, mandates that Patel undergo intensive mental health treatment and therapy sessions on a weekly basis. As part of the program's stringent conditions, he is prohibited from practicing medicine, using marijuana or alcohol, and having any contact with his wife and children. Instead, Patel will reside at his parents' residence for the duration of his treatment.

San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe expressed strong reservations regarding the judge's decision, emphasizing the gravity of the crime and the potential risk to public safety posed by Patel's actions. Wagstaffe noted that attempted murder charges typically do not meet the criteria for diversion programs due to their serious nature.

The incident occurred in January 2023 near Devil's Slide in San Mateo County, where Patel, then 41 years old, intentionally drove the Tesla over the cliff with his wife and two children on board. Remarkably, all occupants survived the ordeal.

Despite objections from prosecutors, Judge Jakubowski approved Patel's participation in the diversion program based on his diagnosed major depression. Under California law, mental health diversion programs aim to provide treatment and assistance to individuals whose criminal behavior is influenced by mental health conditions.

If Patel successfully completes the intensive two-year program, the charges against him will be dismissed. This outcome has sparked considerable controversy and debate, particularly in light of the serious charges and potential implications for public safety.

Family members of Patel have chosen not to comment on the recent court ruling. The case has garnered substantial public attention and has prompted broader discussions about the delicate balance between justice, mental health intervention, and community safety within the judicial system.

Patel's progress through the mental health diversion program will be closely monitored, with ongoing scrutiny from legal authorities and the community at large regarding the outcomes and implications of his treatment and rehabilitation efforts in the coming months and years.