Maradona death trial: Defense demands acquittal of addiction specialist and psychiatrist

The Maradona death trial has entered its final stage with defense arguments demanding the acquittal of addiction specialist Carlos Diaz and psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, arguing they are not related to the death. Diaz's case has caused a split between the prosecution and civil parties, with demands ranging from 5 to 12 years in prison or full acquittal. Arguments are expected to continue until Thursday.

The trial over the death of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona has entered its final stage, with defense arguments demanding the acquittal of psychologist Carlos Diaz and psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov. Their lawyers describe the defendants as having no connection to the death, or being powerless to prevent it, or not being fully aware of the reality. Diaz, 34, a specialist in addiction treatment, is a special case in the trial that began in April to try the medical team that oversaw Maradona on charges of negligence leading to his death in November 2020 during home hospitalization after undergoing what was described as minor neurosurgery. Diaz joined during the last month of Maradona's life to help him quit alcohol and psychoactive substances. While the prosecution and civil parties demanded prison sentences for six of the seven defendants, Diaz's case caused a clear split, reflecting some ambiguity about the real responsibilities surrounding Maradona in his final days. The public prosecutor demanded a five-year sentence, supported by two other parties, while a lawyer for one of Maradona's sons demanded 12 years, and two other parties called for his full acquittal. His lawyer Luciano Zoria said at the start of the defense arguments on Tuesday: "They could not agree on the nature of the charge against Carlos Diaz nor on the reasons that make him responsible for Maradona's death. This is a focal point in this trial." Defense arguments are expected to continue until Thursday, with the verdict postponed to a later date.