The public inquiry examining the crimes of child serial killer Lucy Letby has reported that two baby deaths linked to the hospital where she worked are being investigated by police. According to a document prepared by the legal team of the Thirlwall Inquiry, 13 deaths occurred at the Countess of Chester’s neonatal unit between 2015 and 2016, while four babies died after being transferred to neonatal units at other hospitals. Cheshire Constabulary has declined to comment on the ongoing investigation.
Earlier this year, Lucy Letby was questioned under caution in prison by detectives investigating deaths and non-fatal collapses at both the Countess of Chester and Liverpool Women’s Hospital. Police have reviewed the hospital care of around 4,000 babies who were admitted to hospital during Letby’s employment between January 2012 and the end of June 2016. The review also covers two of her work placements in Liverpool.
Letby was ultimately convicted of murdering seven babies and attempting to murder seven others between June 2015 and June 2016, and is now serving 15 whole-life sentences. Following her conviction, police identified 17 deaths, but some were subsequently found to have a natural or biological cause. The public inquiry has revealed details of the 17 deaths, including the cause of death recorded post-mortem or the registered cause of death, although several cited congenital conditions.
The public inquiry, chaired by Lady Justice Thirlwall, is hearing its final week of evidence, and report is expected to be published in the autumn. Letby’s convictions have led to detailed investigations into the safety of neonatal care in the UK’s hospitals, including staffing levels, patient management, and training
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
