Calls to Pause Lucy Letby Inquiry Intensify as New Evidence Challenges Convictions

Former hospital executives and Letby’s legal team push for suspension, citing alternative explanations for infant deaths and ongoing legal reviews.

Lawyers for Lucy Letby and former Countess of Chester Hospital executives have requested the public inquiry be paused, arguing that new expert evidence undermines her convictions.
An international panel of medical experts has suggested that natural causes or poor clinical care, not deliberate harm, may explain the infant deaths attributed to Letby.
The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) is reviewing Letby’s case for potential referral to the Court of Appeal, while police investigations into gross negligence manslaughter continue.
Families of the victims oppose halting the inquiry, accusing hospital executives of attempting to avoid accountability for systemic failures.
The Thirlwall Inquiry is proceeding with closing submissions, with a final report expected later this year, though its scope may be impacted by the ongoing legal challenges.