The police investigation into the Countess of Chester Hospital, concerning nurse Lucy Letby's murder of seven babies and attempted murder of another seven, has expanded. The focus of the investigation is now on potential evidence of gross negligence manslaughter, marking a new phase in the case's scrutiny. This expansion aims to determine the full extent of culpability related to the tragic events.
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03-15, 2025Cheshire Police stated that they launched a corporate manslaughter investigation into the Countess of Chester Hospital in October 2023. Detective Superintendent Paul Hughes said, "As part of our ongoing investigation, we have now widened the scope to include gross negligence manslaughter." Police have notified an undisclosed number of suspects, but emphasized that "no arrests or charges have been made" yet. The investigation continues to meticulously gather and analyze evidence.
A senior investigating officer stated, "This is a different offense to corporate manslaughter and focuses on the actions or omissions of individuals who have been grossly negligent." He emphasized, "It is important to note that this does not affect the convictions of Lucy Letby for murder and attempted murder." Speaking about the gross negligence manslaughter investigation, DSI Hughes said, "We are not confirming the number of people involved or their identities." The complexities of the case require careful consideration of all potential factors.
DSI Hughes added, "Both the corporate manslaughter and gross negligence manslaughter investigations are continuing, and there is no set timescale." His team is also continuing to investigate baby deaths and non-fatal collapses that occurred at the Countess of Chester Hospital and Liverpool Women’s Hospital between 2012 and 2016. "Our priority is to maintain the integrity of the ongoing investigation and to support the many families who are at the heart of these cases," the senior detective said. Providing support to the affected families remains a crucial aspect of the investigation.
Last month, a panel of international neonatologists and pediatric experts claimed Letby was not responsible for attacking the babies. Dr. Shoo Lee, chair of the panel, stated at a press conference that "in all cases, the deaths or collapses were due to natural causes or inappropriate medical care." The panel's concerns have been submitted to the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), which investigates potential miscarriages of justice. Letby's legal team hopes her case will be referred back to the Court of Appeal. The review by the CCRC could potentially lead to a re-examination of the evidence.
Letby, originally from Hereford, was sentenced to 15 whole life orders for attacking babies in the neonatal unit at the Countess of Chester Hospital between June 2015 and June 2016. The public inquiry into her crimes is due to reconvene at Liverpool Town Hall on Monday for closing statements. Inquiry chair Lady Justice Thirlwall is expected to publish her findings in the autumn. The upcoming closing statements and subsequent report will provide further insights into the events surrounding Letby's crimes.
