Program or Prison Time? The Fate of Dharmesh Patel is Now in Judge’s Hands

In January 2023, California radiologist Dharmesh Patel intentionally drove his Tesla off a cliff with his wife and two children inside after suffering a “psychotic break” and extreme delusions. Miraculously, the entire family survived. When Patel recovered from his injuries, he was charged with three counts of attempted murder. Now, with the support of psychologists and Patel’s own wife, he is being considered for a mental health diversion program rather than a criminal trial and prison time. In today’s Headlines, Candice is joined by legal analyst Josh Ritter to take a closer look at what diversion programs are, and how the program could positively or negatively impact Patel’s case. Candice and Josh weigh the pros and cons of using the judicial system to solve mental health problems.

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