A trial examining the alleged negligent homicide of football legend Diego Maradona has collapsed due to a violation of court rules by a judge involved in unauthorized documentary filming. The retrial date hasn't been set, leaving the medical staff awaiting their fate.
Mistrial Declared in Trial of Maradona's Medical Team Following Judicial Misconduct
Mistrial Declared in Trial of Maradona's Medical Team Following Judicial Misconduct
The trial against seven members of Diego Maradona's medical team has been declared a mistrial in Argentina after judicial misconduct was uncovered regarding a participating judge's involvement in a documentary.
The legal proceedings concerning the medical team of the late Diego Maradona have taken a significant turn as the trial was declared a mistrial after it came to light that a judge had participated in an unauthorized documentary about the case. The trial, which commenced on March 11 and was expected to extend until July, involved charges against seven healthcare professionals—including a neurosurgeon, a doctor, and a night nurse—accused of negligent homicide linked to Maradona's death in 2020. All accused deny the charges.
Maradona, who died at the age of 60 from a heart attack while recovering at home post-surgery, had reportedly refused further medical treatment, raising debates about the adequacy of care provided to him in his final days. The presiding judge, Julieta Makintach, stepped down from the case earlier this week following accusations of unprofessional conduct. Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari criticized her conduct, claiming she acted more like an actress than a judge during the proceedings.
The collapse of the trial drew emotional responses from Maradona’s family, notably as a trailer featuring footage of the events was screened in the courtroom, prompting outbursts from the defense. Following the session, Makintach expressed regret over her participation in the documentary, stating she felt compelled to excuse herself due to the backlash.
The trial has already seen testimonies from nearly 50 witnesses, including Maradona's daughters, yet a new date for the retrial remains uncertain, alongside the appointment of new judges to oversee the case. This situation poses a significant setback for the legal accountability anticipated by Maradona's family and fans worldwide, as they seek justice for the famed footballer.
