The highly publicized trial concerning Diego Maradona's medical team has come to a dramatic conclusion as a mistrial was declared in Argentina. This decision stems from the discovery that Judge Julieta Makintach, one of the three judges presiding over the case, had been involved in a documentary about the trial, leading to concerns over judicial propriety. The trial, which commenced on March 11, was anticipated to last until July.
Seven members of Maradona’s medical team, including a neurosurgeon, a physician, and a night nurse, were charged with negligent homicide related to the Argentine football icon's untimely death in November 2020 due to a heart attack. They have disputed the allegations, contending that Maradona declined further medical treatment and should have continued his recovery at home.
Tensions escalated in the courtroom when Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari criticized Judge Makintach for her conduct. During legal proceedings, a trailer for the documentary series "Divine Justice" was shown, sparking outrage from the defense, with lawyer Rodolfo Baque deriding it as “trash.” The court's rules prohibit unauthorized recordings, and it became clear the documentary was filmed without the court’s consent.
As a result of the backlash surrounding her participation, Judge Makintach announced her withdrawal from the case. Following her excusal, the trial was postponed as the court made arrangements for a new trial with yet-to-be-determined judges and date. Meanwhile, nearly 50 witnesses, including Maradona's daughters, had already given their testimonies prior to the mistrial declaration.
