Argentine prosecutors have formally requested prison sentences of up to 12 years for the medical professionals responsible for the care of
Maradona, the 1986 World Cup-winning captain, passed away at the age of 60 due to heart failure and acute pulmonary edema. At the time of his death, he was recuperating at a rented property in Tigre, a suburb of Buenos Aires, just two weeks after undergoing a procedure to remove a blood clot from his brain. The seven defendants, including his personal physician, a psychiatrist, a psychologist, and several nurses, stand accused of failing to meet their professional obligations.
Allegations of Negligence and Abandonment
During the closing arguments, prosecutor Patricio Ferrai delivered a scathing assessment of the medical team's conduct. He argued that the defendants’ disorganized approach left the former star in a state of total helplessness, effectively abandoning him to his fate. The prosecution has charged the group with “dolo eventual,” a legal term applied when individuals recognize that their actions or omissions could lead to fatal consequences but proceed without intervention.
The prosecution’s case centers on the decision to allow Maradona to recover at a private residence rather than in a clinical setting. Prosecutors highlighted the absence of critical medical infrastructure at the house, specifically noting the lack of a hospital bed, a defibrillator, and immediate ambulance access. Assistant prosecutor Cosme Iribarren emphasized that the tragedy was not an isolated or unforeseeable event, stating that clear warning signs, including tachycardia, edema, and respiratory distress, were ignored by those tasked with his care.
Sentencing Requests and Trial Context
The prosecution has requested a 12-year prison sentence for
The trial has been marked by emotional moments, including the presentation of photographs of Maradona’s body, which showed signs of severe physical distress. The late footballer’s three daughters were present in court as these images were displayed. The current trial follows a previous attempt that was annulled last year after it was revealed that a judge had participated in a documentary regarding the case. The prosecution’s closing arguments are expected to continue for another two weeks, with a final verdict to be delivered at a later date.
