An Argentine court has nullified the trial of the late football legend Diego Maradona's medical team following the withdrawal of a judge involved due to ethical violations. The decision came after Judge Julieta Makintach participated in an unauthorized documentary about the case, compromising the integrity of the proceedings.
Judge Maximiliano Savarino declared the trial null and void on Thursday, citing that the conduct of his colleague had prejudiced the judicial process. The trial, which began in March and had involved over 40 witnesses, will now be restarted with a new panel of judges appointed via an internal court lottery. No date has been set for the new trial.
Makintach recused herself after it was revealed she was interviewed for a miniseries titled "Divine Justice," which included unauthorized courtroom footage. This breach raised accusations against her ranging from loss of impartiality to influence peddling and bribery. The footage showed her navigating the courtroom and interacting with a film crew, undermining her credibility and breaching court protocols.
The prosecution, complainants, and defense counsel had collectively requested the appointment of a new judicial panel, considering the current trial tainted. The ruling can still be appealed, potentially delaying the proceedings further.
Diego Maradona, regarded as one of football's greatest players, died in November 2020 at age 60 due to heart failure and acute pulmonary edema, two weeks post-brain surgery. His seven-member medical team stands accused of negligent care during his home recovery, facing prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years on charges of "homicide with possible intent." Prosecutors argue Maradona was subjected to prolonged mistreatment before his death.
During the trial, Maradona's daughter, Gianinna Maradona, described her father’s convalescence environment as "dark, ugly, and lonely," accusing his caregivers of prioritizing money over his wellbeing.
