The families of six babies have failed in their attempt to overturn a decision not to prosecute serial killer nurse Lucy Letby over their deaths. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has upheld its original ruling not to bring further charges against Letby, who is already serving 15 whole life terms for the murders of seven babies and the attempted murders of seven others.
Review upholds original decision
In January 2026, the CPS decided not to bring new criminal charges against Letby after reviewing evidence from Cheshire Constabulary. The six families then requested a review under the Victims' Right to Review (VRR) scheme. An independent prosecutor conducted an extensive review, re-examining substantial evidence and material, but the decision was upheld.
Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS's special crime division, said: "In January 2026, after reviewing a file of evidence from Cheshire Constabulary, we decided that no further criminal charges should be brought against Lucy Letby, 36, relating to deaths and non-fatal collapses of babies at the Countess of Chester Hospital and Liverpool Women's Hospital."
Six attempted murder offences reconsidered
McHaffie added: "Six offences of attempted murder were reconsidered in relation to six babies, but the review upheld the original decision not to bring any further criminal charges. The Crown Prosecution Service has written to the families involved and will offer meetings to answer any further questions. Our thoughts remain with them."
Cheshire Constabulary had asked the CPS to consider allegations following a review of deaths and non-fatal collapses of babies during Letby's time at the Countess of Chester Hospital and Liverpool Women's Hospital, where she trained from 2012 to 2016.
Background and inquiry
Letby, 36, committed the crimes at the Countess of Chester Hospital's neonatal unit between June 2015 and June 2016. In 2024, she was twice denied permission to appeal against her convictions. A public inquiry led by Lady Justice Thirlwall into how the nurse was able to commit her crimes is expected to publish its findings later this year.
