Background on Diego Maradona and His Medical Team
Diego Maradona, the legendary Argentine footballer, passed away on November 25, 2020, due to a pulmonary edema while under home care following a neurosurgical procedure. The seven-member medical team, including neurologist Leopoldo Luque, faces charges of homicide with intent for the death of Maradona. These charges carry a potential sentence of 8 to 25 years in prison.
The Medical Team and Their Roles
The medical team consisted of:
- Leopoldo Luque: Neurosurgeon and Maradona’s personal doctor.
- Agustina Cosachov: Psychiatrist.
- Leopoldo Luque’s daughter, Natalia Luque: Neurologist.
- Carlos Díaz: Psychologist.
- María Elena Herrera: Nurse.
- Horacio Casquero: Medical coordinator.
- Nancy Forlin: Nurse.
The Judicial Process and Recent Developments
In March, a three-judge panel began hearing the case against Luque and six other medical professionals, accused of homicide with intent. However, the trial was annulled in May after one of the judges, Julieta Makintach, was found to have participated in an unauthorized documentary about the case.
A new tribunal was randomly selected in June to restart the trial, but one of the judges recently excused themselves due to health concerns. A new magistrate must now be appointed for the process to continue.
Luque’s legal team requested a trial by jury, stating that they believe no tribunal can be impartial. If their request is denied, they plan to appeal up to the Supreme Court, further delaying the trial’s restart.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current status of the trial? The trial has been annulled, and a new tribunal is being prepared. Luque’s legal team has requested a trial by jury, which, if denied, will lead to an appeal to the Supreme Court.
- Who are the medical professionals charged? The seven members of Maradona’s medical team facing charges are Leopoldo Luque, Agustina Cosachov, Natalia Luque, Carlos Díaz, María Elena Herrera, Horacio Casquero, and Nancy Forlin.
- What are the potential consequences for the accused? If found guilty, each defendant faces 8 to 25 years in prison for homicide with intent.
- What is the significance of a trial by jury? The legal team believes that a trial by jury will ensure impartiality, as they doubt the existence of an entirely unbiased tribunal.
