‘Diego would defend me,’ says lead suspect in trial over Maradona’s death

Neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque, the lead defendant in the trial over the death of Diego Maradona six years ago, appeared before the court on Thursday and declared that the late star would be the only person who “would tell the truth” and “would defend” him.

The trial seeks to determine responsibility for Maradona’s death, which occurred on November 25, 2020 – just 22 days after the legendary footballer had undergone surgery for a subdural haematoma and while he was receiving home-based medical care.

“Diego is the only one who would tell the truth and defend me,” said Luque, Maradona’s former personal physician, during the 12th hearing of proceedings taking place in San Isidro, on the outskirts of Buenos Aires.

Intensive care specialist Fernando Villarejo also gave evidence Thursday. He treated the former footballer following surgery and told the court that he had disagreed with the controversial decision to transfer him to a residence for home care.

“He was not a patient suitable for home care. He required other forms of support and facilities,” Villarejo said, noting that he had recommended admission to a specialised institution, particularly because of Maradona’s addiction problems involving alcohol and psychotropic medication.

The decision for home-based care was agreed upon by Maradona’s family, entourage, and medical team, and took place in the city of Tigre, near San Isidro.

Throughout the trial, which began on April 14, several witnesses have stated that Luque and psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov insisted it was the only option because Maradona would not consent to entering a rehabilitation centre.

“We suggested that he should go to a specialised addiction treatment institution,” Villarejo added.

On Tuesday, one of Diego Maradona’s daughters testified before the court that Luque promoted home hospitalisation.

Jana Maradona, 30, was referring to a discussion between Luque and the former footballer’s family, in which it was decided that Maradona would continue his recovery at a private residence.

“He told us we had only one bullet left and that we had to decide very carefully what to do. The house was going to be like a rehabilitation clinic, but more comfortable for my father. I felt it was the best decision,” Jana told the court.

She said that Luque maintained that Maradona would not agree to being admitted to a clinic.

“I was told it would be a serious home hospitalisation and that [healthcare provider] Swiss Medical would be completely at my father’s disposal,” said the late footballer’s third daughter.

The court proceedings are examining both the conditions and the appropriateness of the home hospitalisation that Luque advocated for. At least a dozen witnesses have described the house in Tigre as dirty and poorly equipped for medical care.

Psychologist Carlos Díaz testified this week that “the pandemic caused a major emotional downturn” for the global football star, who, he said, suffered from bipolar disorder and narcissistic personality disorder, in addition to addictions to alcohol and psychotropic drugs.

Luque, Cosachov, and five other healthcare professionals are facing charges of homicide with possible intent, meaning they were aware that their actions could lead to death. If convicted, they could face prison sentences of up to 25 years.

An eighth defendant will be tried separately before a jury.

– TIMES/AFP