former Deputy and Doctor Settle Case Over Prioritized Vaccine Access
Comodoro Rivadavia, Argentina - A former deputy and a local doctor have agreed too pay a combined $4 million to the Zonal Hospital of Esquel, effectively closing a case stemming from allegations of improper access to the Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine. The resolution, issued Monday by the Federal Oral Court of Comodoro Rivadavia and signed by Judges Enrique Baronetto, Ana María D’Alessio, and Cabral, will result in the dismissal of charges against both individuals upon full payment.Dr. Igón, a former deputy, was accused of “gift acceptance” after receiving the vaccine when it was initially reserved for healthcare personnel.Bionndo, who served as head of the Epidemiology area at the time, faced charges for allegedly authorizing the inoculation.
The defense argued for economic reparation, valuing the payment at the current cost of the vaccine and asserting that while the state was affected, no individuals suffered direct harm. They also highlighted the potential for unnecessary legal expenses associated with a full trial, and the likelihood of any conviction resulting in a conditional sentence given the defendants’ clean criminal records.
Court documents reveal that Dr. Igón had pre-existing health conditions – diabetes and obesity – which would have qualified him for vaccination shortly after the date he received the dose.
The judges ultimately agreed with the defense’s proposal, citing the benefits of “alternative, effective and peaceful” economic reparation, especially when directed towards public health resources like the Esquel hospital.
While Attorney General Teodoro Nürnberg initially opposed the settlement during a July 30 preliminary hearing, arguing that such agreements are inappropriate for public officials, the court sided with the defense.
The case will be officially closed once the $4 million payment – $3 million from Dr.Igón and $1 million from Bionndo – is completed.