Trial judge involving Maradona's demise steps down from position. - Judge stepping down from the trial surrounding Maradona's death; leaves position of presiding judge.
Argentina's Diego Maradona's Death Trial Derailed by Judge's Conflict of Interest
In a striking turn of events, Judge Julieta Makintach has recused herself from the trial centering on the death of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona, following allegations of bias and a conflict of interest. The judge was accused of filming a documentary on the case without the proper authorization.
The questionable conduct has raised concerns related to the court's perceived impartiality, with all parties, including the prosecution, plaintiffs, and defendants, demanding Makintach be replaced. Further allegations suggest that Makintach permitted unauthorized filming in the courtroom throughout the trial. However, Makintach has denied any involvement or approval of the recordings.
Media outlets in Argentina have circulated footage showing Makintach being interviewed by a camera crew prior to the trial's commencement. Following these accusations and an investigation, Makintach voluntarily withdrew from the case, stating, "Given the application of all parties, I have no other option but to accept the challenge. I hope the trial can continue without me."
The presiding judge, Maximiliano Savarino, from San Isidro, north of Buenos Aires, ordered Makintach's removal from the case due to the damaging circumstances that compromised her impartiality, claiming the incident to be "extremely serious." The trial's upcoming sessions have been postponed. The court will decide on Thursday if Makintach can be replaced or if the trial must restart under the supervision of three brand new judges.
The trial into the death of the 60-year-old Maradona, which began on March 11, focuses on allegations of negligence by his doctors and caregivers, with potential prison sentences of up to 25 years if found guilty. Maradona died on November 25, 2020, in a rented apartment in an upscale neighborhood near Buenos Aires after undergoing a brain operation, rather than hospital care in his final days.
- Diego Maradona
- Death
- Conflict of Interest
- Trial
- San Isidro
- Argentina
- Judicial Impropriety
- Camera Crew
- Misconduct
- Prosecution
- Judge Julieta Makintach
- Buenos Aires
The conflict of interest surrounding Judge Julieta Makintach, who was presiding over the trial of Diego Maradona's death, has led to the halt of the proceedings. The allegations include unauthorized filming of the trial by a camera crew and potential bias, causing all parties to demand her replacement. The trial, which is taking place in San Isidro, north of Buenos Aires, focuses on negligence allegations against Maradona's healthcare providers, with severe penalties if found guilty.
