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Maradona Medical Team Trial Begins in Argentina
Legal Proceedings Open Four Years After His Death
Argentina has commenced a highly anticipated trial against the medical team involved in the care of soccer legend Diego Maradona. The trial, taking place over four years after his death in 2020, has stirred strong emotions in the country, where Maradona remains a revered figure.
Defendants Face Charges of Negligence
The trial is being held at the San Isidro appeals court near Buenos Aires. The accused include Maradona’s former nurses, brain surgeon, and psychiatrist. They face charges of homicide by negligence, with a possible sentence ranging from eight to 25 years if convicted. An eighth defendant, a nurse, will face trial separately in July.
Fans Demand Justice
Outside the courthouse, supporters displayed banners reading “Justice for D10S,” referencing Maradona’s iconic jersey number and his god-like status in Argentina. “They killed him, and today they will have to deal with it here,” said Sergio Gimenez, a devoted Maradona fan.
Details of Maradona’s Death
Maradona passed away at his home in November 2020 due to heart failure while recovering from brain surgery. He had undergone a procedure to remove a blood clot just days earlier. The prosecution contends that his medical team was reckless, providing care that was “calamitous, reckless, deficient, and unprecedented.”
Prosecution’s Argument
During the opening session, prosecutors read out an indictment detailing how medical protocols were broken. They described the conditions in which Maradona was treated as a “theater of horror” and claimed that none of the accused took the necessary measures to prevent his death. Investigators had previously determined in 2021 that the medical team was aware of Maradona’s deteriorating health and failed to act appropriately, leading to charges of culpable homicide.
Defense Claims No Wrongdoing
Lawyers for the accused medical professionals rejected the charges. The defense for neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque argued that Maradona’s home hospitalization had been agreed upon with his family. Lawyer Mara Digiuni stated that Maradona’s death was due to an “unforeseeable” cardiac event rather than negligence. The psychiatrist’s lawyer also maintained that there was no criminal responsibility.
Key Figures in the Trial
The seven individuals on trial include:
- Psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov
- Neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque
- Psychologist Carlos Ángel Díaz
- Doctor Nancy Edith Forlini
- Nurse Ricardo Almirón
- Chief Nurse Mariano Ariel Perroni
- Clinical Physician Pedro Pablo Di Spagna
Nurse Dahiana Madrid will face a separate trial in July.
Witness Testimonies and Trial Duration
The trial is expected to last several months, with over 100 witnesses, including family members, doctors, journalists, and friends of Maradona, set to testify.
Seeking Justice for Maradona
Mario Baudry, the lawyer representing one of Maradona’s sons, emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “There are more than enough elements to prove that Diego was not treated properly. Let’s hope that justice is done.”
“Maradona Medical Team Trial Begins in Argentina” “Maradona Medical Team Trial Begins in Argentina” “Maradona Medical Team Trial Begins in Argentina” “Maradona Medical Team Trial Begins in Argentina”