Inquests Open on Five Baby Deaths Linked to Nurse Lucy Letby
Inquests are set to commence regarding the deaths of five infants linked to nurse Lucy Letby. These proceedings will take place at Cheshire Coroner’s Court, focusing on babies C, E, I, O, and P, who died at the Countess of Chester Hospital between 2015 and 2016 during Letby’s tenure in the neonatal unit.
Overview of the Inquests
Jacqueline Devonish, the senior coroner for Cheshire, is expected to begin the hearings. The inquests will likely be adjourned and postponed until later this year. Should the proceedings continue, provisional dates have been set for September.
The timing of these inquests is contingent upon the results of the Thirlwall Inquiry. This inquiry examines the circumstances allowing Letby to commit her offenses, with findings expected post-Easter.
Background on Nurse Lucy Letby
Lucy Letby, aged 36, was recently sentenced to 15 whole-life terms for murdering seven infants and attempting to kill seven others from June 2015 to June 2016. Her case has garnered significant attention due to the severe nature of her crimes.
- Baby A: Inquest in October 2016; cause of death undetermined.
- Baby D: Inquest opened in January 2016 but later paused due to ongoing criminal proceedings.
Updates on Legal Proceedings
In a recent decision, the Crown Prosecution Service announced that Letby will not face additional criminal charges. These allegations pertained to the deaths and non-fatal collapses of more infants. The legal evidence submitted by Cheshire Constabulary did not meet the necessary evidential standards for prosecution.
Letby has continuously proclaimed her innocence, contesting her convictions in two unsuccessful appeals last year. Meanwhile, a group of advocates is actively working to challenge these convictions. They have submitted documentation to the Criminal Cases Review Commission, aiming for a reevaluation of her case.
As the inquests into the deaths of the five victims proceed, the public and their families seek clarity and justice in this tragic situation.
