A retired paediatrician who initially provided evidence leading to Lucy Letby’s conviction for the murder and attempted murder of infants has called for a retrial, expressing doubts about her guilt. Dr John Gibbs, one of three consultants whose testimony was instrumental in Letby’s conviction, stated that he is no longer certain that Letby was responsible for the deaths, and suggested that it is possible no deliberate harm was caused to the babies.
Letby, 36, was found guilty in 2023 and 2024 of murdering seven babies and attempting to murder eight others at the Countess of Chester Hospital’s neonatal unit during 2015 and 2016. She is currently serving 15 whole-life terms after having two appeals rejected. Despite the convictions, a growing number of experts have raised questions about the case, including the recent broadcast of a documentary titled *Lucy Letby: Scapegoat?*, which examined whether she has been unfairly blamed for a series of infant deaths.
In response to this emerging debate, Dr Gibbs said a new trial might be “the most appropriate thing for everyone.” He acknowledged the distress caused to the families of the babies but emphasized the necessity of reviewing new evidence that could challenge the existing verdicts. “If it is the case that Lucy Letby is behind bars for crimes she had not committed, then that’s clearly appalling,” he said. Dr Gibbs also stated he does not believe another individual was responsible for harming the infants and voiced concerns over the possibility that no intentional wrongdoing occurred.
The concerns arise against the backdrop of a separate inquiry led by Lady Justice Kathryn Thirlwall, which recently attributed the failures to protect the babies to “dysfunctional management and governance” at the neonatal unit, rather than to the actions of any single individual. The inquiry’s findings have intensified scrutiny of the hospital’s role and raised broader questions about systemic issues that might have contributed to the tragic events.
Cheshire Police, which continues to investigate the case, strongly rejects any suggestion that the original investigation or prosecution was flawed. A spokesperson reaffirmed their confidence in the integrity of the legal process and expressed sympathy for the affected families. The police are also investigating three former senior hospital leaders on suspicion of corporate and gross negligence manslaughter.
The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust declined to comment on ongoing investigations but stated it would provide further updates on steps taken to improve patient safety and governance when appropriate.
As the debate over Letby’s conviction continues, the case underscores the complexities involved in addressing tragic outcomes in healthcare settings and the challenges of ensuring justice while examining systemic failings.