The Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed that serial killer Lucy Letby will not be prosecuted for any further crimes, following a comprehensive review of evidence submitted by detectives. Prosecutors announced today that there is insufficient proof to bring new charges against the former neonatal nurse, who is currently serving 15 whole life terms for the murder of seven babies and attempted murder of seven others.
Evidence Falls Short for New Prosecution
Frank Ferguson, head of the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, stated that after thorough examination of evidence relating to nine additional babies – including two fatalities – the evidential threshold for prosecution was not met. The decision means Letby, 36, will avoid another trial despite police investigations into her four-year nursing career at both the Countess of Chester Hospital and Liverpool Women's Hospital.
Families' Reactions and Legal Implications
The announcement represents a significant blow to families involved in the Cheshire police investigation, who believe their children were harmed while under Letby's care. One mother expressed being "absolutely devastated" that her son would not receive justice through the criminal courts. However, the decision has been welcomed by Letby's defence team and campaigners who maintain she is a victim of miscarriage of justice.
Prosecutors considered 11 potential charges including eight offences of attempted murder and three murder allegations across both hospital settings. The CPS emphasised that their decision was made independently based on legal tests, though sources suggest the "noise" surrounding Letby's original convictions influenced the outcome.
Ongoing Legal Battles and Inquiry
While Letby faces no further criminal proceedings, her legal team continues to challenge existing convictions through the Criminal Cases Review Commission. A panel of 14 international experts led by Canadian neonatologist Dr Shoo Lee has presented reports suggesting babies died from natural causes rather than criminal acts, though families' lawyers have criticised this evidence as flawed and repetitive.
Separately, the Thirlwall Inquiry continues to investigate how Letby operated undetected within the NHS system. A leaked independent report suggests hospital managers missed multiple opportunities to suspend Letby earlier, potentially preventing further deaths. Three former hospital bosses were recently arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter as part of Operation Duet, though prosecutors have not yet been asked for charging advice regarding that investigation.
Civil Action Remains Possible
Today's decision does not prevent affected families from pursuing civil action against the NHS, where the threshold for proving harm is lower than in criminal cases. All victims retain the automatic right to request a review of the CPS decision, which would involve a second senior lawyer evaluating the evidence.
Despite the conclusion of this phase of investigation, Letby remains imprisoned for life while legal debates about her convictions continue to unfold through multiple channels.
