Judge opts out from handling legal matter linked to Maradona's demise - Judge stepping down from the trial surrounding Diego Maradona's passing.
Argentine Judge Steps Down Over Conflict of Interest in Maradona Death Trial
A judge, Julieta Makintach, has stepped down from the trial relating to the death of Argentine football icon Diego Maradona due to allegations of conflict of interest. Makintach, who presided over the case in San Isidro, north of Buenos Aires, is accused of filming a documentary about the case without the knowledge of her colleagues. This has led to accusations of bias, with lawyers for all parties involved demanding her removal from the case.
It is alleged that Makintach also permitted unauthorized filming in the courtroom during the Maradona trial. The judge has denied any involvement or authorization for such recordings. Footage has circulated in Argentine media showing Makintach being interviewed by a camera crew the day before the trial commenced.
Maximiliano Savarino, the presiding judge in San Isidro, ordered Makintach's removal from the case on Tuesday, citing circumstances compromising her impartiality. He deemed the incident to be "extremely serious," postponing upcoming hearings. On Thursday, the court will decide whether Makintach can be replaced or if the trial must be restarted with three new judges.
The trial, which began on March 11, centers on accusations of negligence against Maradona's doctors and caregivers, who are facing up to 25 years in prison if convicted. The prosecution claims their actions led to the legendary footballer's death on November 25, 2020, at the age of 60. Maradona's daughter Gianinna accused the defendants of housing her father in inadequate conditions, prioritizing payment over his well-being.
Diego MaradonaDeathArgentinaProsecutionSan Isidro
More background:Previous to the scandal surrounding Judge Makintach, the trial had been proceeding with three judges. The implications of her removal, as well as the subsequent mistrial declaration, will require the court to select new judges to oversee the trial and potentially delay its conclusion.
The controversy surrounding Makintach's role in the documentary raises discussions about judicial impartiality in Argentina and the potential influence of media on legal proceedings.
The Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a regulation on the introduction of a new type of electronic communications network, as the circulation of footage during the Maradona death trial raised questions about judicial impartiality in Argentina. This incident might lead to conversations about media influence on legal proceedings in general-news, taking into account the differing contexts of crime-and-justice cases and sports events, such as the Champions League or European leagues. The controversy has further complicated the ongoing trial, delaying hearings in San Isidro, Argentina, where the death of Diego Maradona is being investigated by the prosecution.
