A hospital cleaner in Cambridge now faces the possibility of two decades behind bars after allegedly poisoning her colleagues' tea with toxic chemicals when they voiced concerns about her work standards.
The shocking incident unfolded at the prestigious Addenbrooke's Hospital, where Spanish national Lidia Garcia Birlut, 46, is accused of contaminating beverages with noxious substances after fellow workers criticised her cleaning performance.
The Toxic Workplace Revenge
According to court documents, the poisoning spree began when Birlut's colleagues expressed dissatisfaction with her cleaning standards. Rather than addressing the feedback professionally, the cleaner allegedly embarked on a dangerous campaign of retaliation that put multiple lives at risk.
Prosecutors claim Birlut deliberately laced tea and other drinks with chemical substances over a sustained period, leaving several co-workers suffering from mysterious illnesses before hospital authorities uncovered the disturbing truth.
Chemical Contamination in Healthcare Setting
The case has sent shockwaves through the healthcare community, particularly given the incident occurred within one of Britain's leading teaching hospitals. Addenbrooke's, part of Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, is renowned for its high medical standards and research excellence.
"This represents a profound breach of trust within an environment where patient safety and staff wellbeing should be paramount," noted a hospital insider familiar with the investigation.
Legal Consequences and Ongoing Proceedings
Birlut now confronts severe legal repercussions, with Spanish authorities seeking her extradition to face justice. If convicted, she could receive a prison sentence of up to 20 years under Spanish law for attempted murder charges.
The case continues to develop as international legal proceedings unfold, highlighting serious concerns about workplace safety and conflict resolution in high-pressure environments.
Hospital management has implemented additional security measures and staff support services following the incident, while emphasising their commitment to maintaining a safe working environment for all employees.
