BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Riddhi Patel, accused of threatening members of the Bakersfield City Council in April 2024, is set to undergo a second mental health evaluation, according to Kern County Superior Court records.
A Kern County judge approved the second examination on Tuesday. Patel, who faces 21 felony counts, could avoid jail time if charges are dismissed.
Riddhi Patel makes first court appearance on Friday, April 12, 2024. (KBAK/KBFX)
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It’s unknown at this time why a second exam was granted. The first exam was granted on Nov. 4, so the diversion hearing has been delayed to late January.
Patel allegedly threatened the Bakersfield City Council on April 10, 2024, by 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.
Riddhi Patel (City of Bakersfield)
Officers booked Patel initially on eight counts of intent to terrorize and eight counts of threatening state officials for a total of 16 felony charges. Patel was initially held on a $2 million bond, but that was later lowered, leading to Patel’s release on bond.
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Patel is due back in court on Jan. 27, 2026, for a diverson hearing.