Inquests have been formally opened and adjourned for five babies who were murdered by former nurse Lucy Letby at the Countess of Chester Hospital. The proceedings, overseen by HM senior coroner for Cheshire, Jacqueline Devonish, relate to the deaths of Baby C, Baby E, Baby I, Baby O, and Baby P, which occurred in 2015 and 2016.
Background and Legal Context
The inquests were requested following Letby's convictions for the murders, as there was a clear reason to suspect that the deaths were unnatural. These hearings are provisionally scheduled to take place in September, although this timeline is pending the outcome of the Thirlwall public inquiry.
Thirlwall Inquiry and Further Developments
The Thirlwall inquiry, which is investigating how Letby was able to commit her crimes, is expected to publish its report after Easter. In related legal news, the Crown Prosecution Service recently announced that it will not bring further charges against Letby. Additionally, earlier this year, she was denied permission to appeal her convictions.
This case continues to draw significant public and legal attention as authorities seek to fully understand the circumstances surrounding these tragic events.
