A group of international medical experts is casting doubt on the convictions of Lucy Letby. The British nurse found guilty of killing seven babies. These experts argue that the medical evidence used in Letby’s trial was misinterpreted, and that no murders actually took place.
A Controversial Conviction
In 2023, Letby was convicted of murdering seven newborns and attempting to murder six others while working at the Countess of Chester Hospital. She received 15 life sentences with no possibility of parole. Lucy Letby has consistently maintained her innocence, but her initial appeals have been denied.
New Evidence Emerges
A team of 14 international medical experts. Led by Dr. Shoo Lee of the University of Toronto, has reviewed the medical evidence presented in Letby’s trial. They assert that the evidence does not support the conclusion that any babies were intentionally harmed. Dr. Lee and his team suggest that medical errors and inadequate care at the hospital were the actual causes of death and injury in the Lucy Letby case.
“No Crimes Were Committed”
Letby’s lawyer, Mark McDonald, is now taking the case to the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), an independent body that investigates potential miscarriages of justice. McDonald argues that the new medical findings “demolish” the case against Letby. “There is overwhelming evidence that the conviction is unsafe,” he states. “If (the experts) are correct, no crime was committed.”
The CCRC Review Process
The CCRC is currently assessing the application submitted by Letby’s legal team. A spokesperson for the commission emphasized that their role is not to determine guilt or innocence, but to review cases for potential miscarriages of justice. While reviewing the case, they are carefully considering all new evidence related to Lucy Letby. The CCRC has not provided a timeline for completing their review of Letby’s case.
Public Inquiry and Ongoing Investigations
Following Letby’s conviction, the government initiated a public inquiry to examine the circumstances surrounding the deaths at the Countess of Chester Hospital. The inquiry will investigate how the alleged murders went undetected and assess the hospital’s response to concerns raised about Letby prior to her arrest.
Cheshire Police are also conducting further investigations into Letby. In December, they questioned her regarding the deaths of other children. However, the police maintain that the guilty verdict against Letby was reached after a thorough trial and extensive jury deliberations. They also point out that the Court of Appeal has already rejected Lucy Letby’s initial appeal.
Awaiting the Outcome
The CCRC’s review will be crucial in determining whether Lucy Letby’s convictions will stand. If the commission finds that there is a real possibility of a miscarriage of justice, they could refer the case back to the Court of Appeal. The outcome of this review will have significant implications for Letby, the families of the babies involved, and the public’s trust in the justice system.
