Police start manslaughter inquiry into senior individuals at Letby hospital

Police investigating the hospital where the nurse Lucy Letby worked have widened their inquiries to include gross negligence manslaughter by senior staff.

Cheshire constabulary says it has expanded its inquiry into the Countess of Chester hospital despite growing questions around Letby’s convictions.

The former nurse is serving 15 whole-life prison terms after being convicted of murdering seven babies and attempting to kill another seven.

Police launched an investigation into corporate manslaughter and the actions of senior managers at the hospital after Letby’s original trial in October 2023.

But the inquiry will now include gross negligence manslaughter by unnamed individuals. The Guardian understands this includes managers.

Det Supt Paul Hughes, the senior investigating officer, said: “As our inquiries have continued, the scope of the investigation has now widened to also include gross negligence manslaughter.

“This is a separate offence to corporate manslaughter and focuses on the grossly negligent action or inaction of individuals.

“It is important to note that this does not impact on the convictions of Lucy Letby for multiple offences of murder and attempted murder.”

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Source: The Guardian, 13 March 2025