A legal setback ensues for the medical staff charged in the death of iconic football legend Diego Maradona
Collapse of Maradona's Medical Team Trial Sparks Controversy
Collapse of Maradona's Medical Team Trial Sparks Controversy
Judge's involvement in documentary leads to mistrial in high-profile case
The trial concerning the seven members of Diego Maradona's medical team has dramatically collapsed after it was revealed that the presiding judge had appeared in a documentary about the case. Launched on March 11, the trial held significant implications for those charged with negligent homicide following the football legend's death from a heart attack in 2020, just weeks after undergoing brain surgery.
The judge, Julieta Makintach, made the decision to step down after facing accusations of maintaining an inappropriate relationship with the case. At the trial's adjournment, the prosecutor voiced frustration at her conduct, particularly after a trailer for the documentary series "Divine Justice" was shown in court. The medical team, which includes a neurosurgeon and a nurse, argues that Maradona had refused further treatment and should have extended his recovery time at home. If found guilty, they could face substantial prison sentences of eight to 25 years.
This contentious development has evoked strong emotions from Maradona's family, especially following the playback of the show's footage, which left his daughter Gianinna and former partner Veronica Ojeda visibly distraught. With nearly 50 witnesses already having testified, including Maradona's daughters, the timeline for the retrial remains uncertain as new judges will need to be appointed.
The judge, Julieta Makintach, made the decision to step down after facing accusations of maintaining an inappropriate relationship with the case. At the trial's adjournment, the prosecutor voiced frustration at her conduct, particularly after a trailer for the documentary series "Divine Justice" was shown in court. The medical team, which includes a neurosurgeon and a nurse, argues that Maradona had refused further treatment and should have extended his recovery time at home. If found guilty, they could face substantial prison sentences of eight to 25 years.
This contentious development has evoked strong emotions from Maradona's family, especially following the playback of the show's footage, which left his daughter Gianinna and former partner Veronica Ojeda visibly distraught. With nearly 50 witnesses already having testified, including Maradona's daughters, the timeline for the retrial remains uncertain as new judges will need to be appointed.
