Cheshire Constabulary has announced a new arrest in connection with the ongoing investigation into convicted killer nurse Lucy Letby. The force confirmed that officers executed a search warrant at a property on Wednesday, 22nd April, under Operation Duet, the inquiry into corporate manslaughter and gross negligence manslaughter at the Countess of Chester Hospital.
Arrest and Bail
An individual was arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and has since been bailed pending further enquiries. The searches at the property have now concluded. Police stated that both the corporate manslaughter and gross negligence manslaughter elements of the investigation are continuing with no set timescales.
Background of the Case
Lucy Letby, 36, from Hereford, is currently serving 15 whole-life orders after being convicted of murdering seven babies and attempting to murder seven others between June 2015 and June 2016. The attacks occurred while she worked as a nurse on the neonatal unit at the Countess of Chester Hospital.
The arrest follows recent criticism of the force by former Brexit secretary Sir David Davis, who called for a review into police conduct and claimed there had been multiple deviations from best professional practice. He also demanded the release of documents including investigators' policy books and decision logs.
Police Response to Criticism
Cheshire Constabulary strongly refuted Sir David's comments, stating that the force has faced constant criticism and intense scrutiny from a core group of individuals who spread misinformation and make baseless claims. The force emphasised that scrutiny must be grounded in fact.
Letby's case is currently under review by the Criminal Cases Review Commission after judges rejected her two bids to appeal against her convictions in 2024.
