Disciplinary Proceedings Initiated Amid Intense Public Criticism
Trial to Restart from the Beginning as Controversy Grows
Controversy has erupted in Argentina after it was revealed that a judge overseeing the murder trial related to the death of global football star Diego Maradona appeared in a secret documentary about the case, acting as if she were an actress. On May 29 (local time), Yonhap News reported that the Supreme Court of Argentina issued a statement announcing a 90-day suspension and the initiation of disciplinary proceedings against Judge Julieta Mackintosh of the San Isidro Criminal Court in Buenos Aires Province, who was part of the panel handling the Maradona case.
As the controversy spread, the court invalidated the trial conducted by the Mackintosh bench and decided to restart all proceedings from the beginning. EPA·Yonhap News
As the controversy spread, the court invalidated the trial conducted by the Mackintosh bench and decided to restart all proceedings from the beginning. Previously, in November 2020, Maradona, who had undergone brain surgery, died at the age of 60 while recovering at home due to heart failure and acute pulmonary edema. At the time, Argentine prosecutors determined that the medical staff treating Maradona at home failed to take appropriate action and charged seven individuals involved with murder by probable intent.
The trial began in March, and during this period, it was revealed that Judge Mackintosh secretly filmed a documentary titled "Justicia divina" (Divine Justice), which covered the entire Maradona death trial. This fact came to light belatedly after a teaser video, edited to resemble a trailer and lasting about one minute, was released to the public.
In the video, Judge Mackintosh is seen moving through what appears to be the interior of the courthouse, looking into the camera from behind her office desk in an actor-like manner. Scenes related to the Maradona death case were also quickly edited and included throughout the video. According to local media, prosecutors, defendants, and Maradona's family members all strongly criticized Judge Mackintosh, citing violations of judicial dignity and impartiality. Public opinion also demanded her impeachment, claiming that she had turned the trial into a reality show, and it was reported that prosecutors are considering the possibility of criminal charges. Additionally, Austral University, a local institution, decided to cancel Judge Mackintosh's lectures.
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