Detectives investigating one of the UK’s most notorious child murder cases have passed a new file of evidence to prosecutors, raising the possibility of further charges against nurse Lucy Letby.
The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed it is reviewing material connected to additional deaths and medical incidents at two hospitals where Letby previously worked — the Countess of Chester Hospital and Liverpool Women’s Hospital.
Letby, 35, is currently serving multiple life sentences for the murder and attempted murder of infants between 2015 and 2016. The potential new allegations have not yet been made public, and it may be weeks before any decision on further charges is announced.
Possible Charges Under Review
Cheshire Police have been carrying out an extensive investigation — codenamed Operation Hummingbird — into suspicious deaths and collapses of babies under Letby’s care. A police spokesperson confirmed that the full file of evidence had now been submitted to the CPS for formal consideration.
The CPS said it will make any charging decisions independently and in line with legal guidance. A spokesperson added: “We will now carefully consider the evidence to determine whether any further criminal charges should be brought.”
The news follows confirmation that three senior members of hospital management were arrested earlier this week on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. All three individuals, who held positions of leadership at the Countess of Chester Hospital between 2015 and 2016, have since been released on bail.
Focus Shifts to Leadership Decisions
Detective Superintendent Paul Hughes, leading the investigation, said the arrests marked a shift in the scope of the inquiry, which originally focused on Letby herself.
“The investigation now also includes gross negligence manslaughter,” he said. “This looks at the actions of individuals in senior positions and whether decisions taken at the time contributed to tragic outcomes.”
He added that the review does not affect Letby’s existing convictions, which remain in place.
Call for Public Accountability
Letby’s barrister has also commented on the latest developments, calling for a full public inquiry into the hospital’s leadership and care standards.
The Government’s Thirlwall Inquiry — set up to investigate how Letby was able to carry out her crimes — is ongoing and due to publish findings in early 2026.
In a statement, the Countess of Chester Hospital said it would not comment further while legal processes continue.
Ongoing National Attention
Letby, from Hereford, has always denied the charges against her. Despite losing her most recent appeal attempts, her case continues to spark national debate and scrutiny over hospital oversight, patient safety, and criminal justice.
Detectives are continuing to review a wider timeframe — from 2012 to 2016 — and will consider further action based on any additional findings that emerge.
