Prosecutor seeks sentences of up to 12 years for three doctors accused in the death of Diego Maradona

Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari has sought sentences ranging from four to 12 years for six of the seven professionals accused in the death of Diego Maradona, who died at the age of 60 in November 2020 at a residence in Tigre, near Buenos Aires. Ferrari argues that three of the defendants committed homicide with dolus eventualis, accepting the risk that their negligence could lead to death, while for the other three he requested convictions for negligent homicide.

The harshest sentence, 12 years in prison and a 10-year ban on practicing medicine, was sought for neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque, regarded as the trusted doctor and main decision-maker within the medical team. Ten years were requested for medical coordinator Nancy Forlini, and eight years for psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov.

The prosecutor also requested five years for psychologist Carlos Diaz and four years each for coordinator Mariano Perroni and nurse Ricardo Almiron. Doctor Pedro di Spagna, who saw Maradona only once during his recovery, was not deemed criminally responsible. Maradona died following cardiorespiratory shock associated with pulmonary edema, after neurosurgery. Closing arguments will take place over approximately two weeks, and the verdict will be delivered at a later date.