Deputy Denied Mental Health Diversion | San Jose News

A San Mateo County deputy, Steven Romero, will face felony charges after allegedly choking and dragging his son for slow breakfast — a case that could’ve been diverted into mental health treatment but was denied by a judge citing insufficient clinical evidence. Despite claims from his attorney that his trauma-driven struggles and media pressure explain his behavior, the court prioritized child safety over diversion. Romero’s certification is suspended, and his legal team vows to appeal, arguing the judge yielded to public scrutiny. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Sources:https://www.mercurynews.com/2026/09/15/san-mateo-county-sheriffs-deputy-child-abuse-mental-health/ More coverage & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/6c57c3a2d5c52d1c Report issues to [email protected].