Argentine Judge Dismissed After Causing Mistrial in Maradona Medical Negligence Case
An Argentine judge, Julieta Makintach, has been removed from office following her role in sparking a mistrial in the high-profile negligence case against the medical team caring for late football legend Diego Maradona.
A special panel of judges, lawyers, and provincial legislators made the decision on Tuesday, also ruling that Makintach, 48, is permanently barred from holding any future judicial position.
Makintach was one of three judges presiding over a trial examining possible “homicide with possible intent” charges against Maradona’s doctors and caregivers. The trial was annulled after she recused herself amid controversy.
The issue arose when footage emerged of Makintach participating in a documentary about the case, “Divine Justice,” which prosecutors argued undermined her impartiality.
According to reports, she not only gave interviews to a film crew but allegedly allowed unauthorized filming inside the courthouse shortly before the trial began.
Prosecutors accused her of breaking ethical rules and “behaving like an actress, not a judge.”
In response, Makintach claimed she had only consented to an informal interview with a friend, denying that she had approved formal filming.
Maradona died on 25 November 2020, aged 60, from heart failure while recovering at home from brain surgery.
Prosecutors had accused his medical team of gross negligence, alleging his care in his final days was inadequate.
If convicted, the medical professionals face prison terms ranging from eight to 25 years.
A new trial is expected to begin, with a fresh judicial panel to be appointed.