The trial of the healthcare workers involved in the care of the late football legend Diego Maradona is facing significant uncertainty following the recusal of a key judge, Julieta Makintach. The judge stepped down amid allegations of impartiality violations and involvement in a documentary related to Maradona's death.
Makintach, aged 47, withdrew from the case after details emerged about her participation in the miniseries titled "Divine Justice," which explores the circumstances surrounding Maradona's death. During a court session on Tuesday, a trailer from the documentary was presented, showing Makintach allegedly reconstructing Maradona's death and other personal struggles related to abandonment. Of particular concern were video segments that appeared to be recorded inside the courtroom, potentially breaching judicial protocols.
Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari criticized Makintach's conduct, stating she was "behaving like an actress and not a judge." The incident follows multiple police raids related to the case, which have also led to accusations of bribery and influence peddling against Makintach.
With Makintach's departure, the remaining judges in the panel, Maximiliano Savarino and Veronica Di Tomasso, are expected to determine by Thursday whether the trial will continue from its current stage or if a new trial must be ordered to maintain legal integrity.
Background of the Trial
Diego Maradona, celebrated as one of football’s all-time greats after leading Argentina to World Cup victory in 1986, passed away in November 2020 due to cardiac arrest. He was 60 years old and recovering at home from brain surgery to address a blood clot. Maradona’s history included battles with drug and alcohol addiction.
Seven members of his medical team are currently on trial, charged with alleged negligent homicide in relation to his death. All defendants deny the accusations. If convicted, they face prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years.
