Seven medical staff who treated Diego Maradona before his death are on trial for homicide charges, facing prison time if convicted. The prosecution claims inadequate care led to his death from heart failure. The trial highlights public demand for justice, with many supporters gathering outside the court.
Seven medical professionals involved in the care of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona before his passing are currently facing homicide charges in Argentina. Maradona, who died at 60 on November 25, 2020, was recuperating from brain surgery for a blood clot after struggling with addiction for many years.
If convicted of “homicide with possible intent,” the defendants, which include a neurosurgeon and various other medical personnel, could face prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years. They are accused of neglecting their responsibilities while being aware of the potential risks to Maradona’s life.
Outside the courtroom, supporters rallied in honor of Maradona, seeking justice for the football icon. Veronica Ojeda, Maradona’s former partner, expressed her gratitude to the attendees, while his daughters, Dalma and Gianinna, entered the court without interacting with the media.
During the prosecution’s opening statement, they declared their intent to provide “solid” evidence illustrating that Maradona’s medical team failed to fulfill their duties during his final days. Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari characterized the situation surrounding Maradona’s death as a “horror theatre.”
Maradona was discovered deceased at his residence in Buenos Aires, just weeks after undergoing surgery. Medical examinations revealed that he succumbed to heart failure and acute pulmonary edema. His death deeply affected Argentina, attracting large crowds who mourned the loss of the 1986 World Cup champion during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The trial is expected to hear testimonies from nearly 120 witnesses, including family members and prior medical caregivers. The main accused includes a range of medical professionals, while the nurse who found Maradona will face separate jury proceedings.
Prosecutors contend that the decision to care for Maradona at home was ill-advised and resulted in inadequate medical attention, effectively leaving him to suffer before his passing. An expert panel had previously indicated that appropriate treatment could have improved Maradona’s chances of survival, highlighting the lack of essential medical equipment at the home.
Maradona’s family has suggested that messages among the medical team indicated that they were attempting to prevent his daughters from intervening due to financial concerns. Despite the serious allegations, the accused maintain their innocence. Graffiti demanding “Justice for Diego!” has appeared throughout Buenos Aires as the trial unfolds, reflecting the public’s desire for accountability in Maradona’s tragic death.
Hilda Pereira, a local pensioner, emphasized that society deserves to discover the truths surrounding Maradona’s circumstances, asserting that no one should escape the repercussions of their actions. She lamented that Maradona “did not deserve to die as he died, alone.”
The trial of seven medical professionals for the alleged homicide of Diego Maradona marks a critical moment in the pursuit of justice for the late football legend. The accusations highlight failures in medical care during his final days, raising questions about accountability within healthcare. The case continues to resonate with fans and supporters, underscoring the societal demand for answers regarding Maradona’s tragic death.
Original Source: www.nzherald.co.nz
