BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) -- A motion has been filed seeking mental health diversion for Riddhi Patel, the protester accused of making threats to Bakersfield City Council members in April 2024. Patel is facing 21 felony counts.
Patel was allegedly heard during the meeting saying, "We'll see you at your house, we'll murder you." The threats were reportedly made in response to demands for the city to pass a resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza.
If the motion is approved and successfully completed, Patel could avoid jail time.
This marks the third recent mental health diversion motion in Kern County Superior Court.
Next Wednesday, Nov. 12, attorneys for Fernando Jara, husband of Supervisor Leticia Perez, will present their case. Jara is accused of making criminal threats.
Last month, attorneys for Zack Scrivner filed a similar motion.
Patel's hearing is scheduled for Dec. 2, 2025.