A Southern California doctor accused of driving his family off a cliff near Devil’s Slide in San Mateo County will be released back into the community.
On Monday, a judge ruled that Dharmesh Patel must undergo two years of mental health treatment. Patel, a 43-year-old radiologist, was behind the wheel last year when his lawyer claims he suffered a psychotic break, causing him to drive his family off the cliff. Remarkably, his wife and two young children survived the incident.
The judge’s decision mandates that Patel live with his parents in San Mateo County during his treatment. Throughout this period, Patel will be prohibited from practicing medicine, smoking marijuana, drinking alcohol, or seeing his wife and children. If he successfully completes the program, his case will be dismissed.
Prosecutors expressed strong opposition to the ruling.
