Inquests into the tragic deaths of babies at the Countess of Chester Hospital will commence next month, shedding light on the dark legacy of Lucy Letby, a former nurse convicted of murdering seven infants and attempting to murder seven more between 2015 and 2016. Serving 15 whole-life jail terms, Letby's actions have left an indelible mark on the healthcare community. The Cheshire Coroner's Court has announced that the inquests will commence on February 4th, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. This development follows the Crown Prosecution Service's (CPS) confirmation that Letby would not face additional criminal charges for allegations of murder and attempted murder against nine children at the Chester hospital and Liverpool Women's Hospital. The inquests will delve into the circumstances surrounding the baby deaths, with reporting restrictions in place to protect the identities of the babies and their families. Cheshire Police had previously submitted evidence to the CPS, covering incidents dating back to 2012, which spanned Letby's career and training in Liverpool. The CPS's review of the file regarding further allegations against nine children did not meet the evidential threshold in any of those cases. The inquests will provide a platform for a thorough examination of the events, offering closure to the families affected and ensuring that justice is served.
