Dr. Dharmesh Patel, a radiologist from Pasadena, who was accused of attempting to kill his family by driving his Tesla off a cliff, was found to have suffered from major depressive disorder and psychotic features at the time of the crash in January 2023. According to psychologist Mark Patterson, Patel was experiencing delusions related to major news headlines such as the war in Ukraine and the fentanyl crisis in the U.S. His greatest fear was that his children could be kidnapped and molested, which seemed to be connected to concerns about Jeffrey Epstein. Patterson testified that Patel had made significant progress in the past year and was considered a low risk for harming others, making him a good candidate for a mental health diversion program.
Patterson conducted 18 tests and spoke with Patel, as well as his brother and sister, before diagnosing him with major depressive disorder and psychotic features. Patel has requested to participate in a mental health diversion program instead of facing trial on charges of first-degree attempted murder for intentionally driving his car off a cliff with his family inside. If approved, the program would involve outpatient treatment overseen by a Stanford psychiatric clinician, James Armontrout, including therapy and regular meetings with a psychotherapist. Patel’s willingness to engage in treatment and perceived capacity to respond positively were cited as reasons for supporting his request.
During the crash, Patel’s wife and 7-year-old daughter sustained serious injuries, while his 4-year-old son miraculously escaped unharmed. Patel initially claimed that he had stopped to check a flat tire before the car went over the cliff, but he was later charged with three counts of first-degree attempted murder. Despite pleading not guilty to all charges, he is currently being held without bail at the San Mateo County Jail. The prosecutors have opposed Patel’s request for a mental health diversion program and are expected to call witnesses to testify against him during the court proceedings scheduled for May 2.
In court hearings, Patterson described Patel as someone who is highly motivated and responsive to treatment, making him a good candidate for the mental health diversion program. Patel’s delusions were said to have been closely linked to various news events, particularly concerning child safety and the wealthy financier, Jeffrey Epstein. These delusions led Patel to drive his family off a cliff, causing serious injuries to his wife and daughter. However, Patterson believes that with appropriate treatment, Patel can overcome his mental health issues and reduce the risk of harming others in the future.
The psychologist’s testimony and diagnosis suggest that Patel’s actions were a result of his mental health condition at the time of the crash. While prosecutors have argued against his request for diversion, citing the severity of the charges against him, Patterson’s assessment highlights that Patel has shown improvement and a reduced risk of harming others. The court will ultimately decide whether to grant Patel’s request for mental health treatment in place of a trial, based on the evidence provided by both sides. Patel’s case raises important questions about the intersection of mental health and criminal justice, and the potential for rehabilitation and recovery in cases involving severe mental health conditions.
