Statement in response to launch of Cheshire Police corporate manslaughter investigation

On October 4 2023, it was announced that Cheshire Constabulary will be launching an investigation into corporate manslaughter at the Countess of Chester Hospital, relating to the period of Lucy Letby’s crimes during 2015 and 2016.

The investigation will focus on the period of Lucy Letby’s crimes from June 2015 to June 2016 and consider areas including senior leadership and decision making to determine whether any criminality has taken place.

We have today issued the following statement to the media in response to the announcement:

Jane Tomkinson OBE, Acting Chief Executive Officer at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“We were deeply saddened and appalled at Lucy Letby’s crimes when the verdicts were delivered. Following the trial we have always maintained we will be supporting the ongoing investigation by Cheshire Police and will be cooperating fully with the investigation announced today so that we can help get the answers that the families and babies affected by this case rightly deserve.

"Cheshire Police have given us their assurance that they are providing ongoing support to the families, who remain at the forefront of our thoughts and efforts to support this investigation. It would not be appropriate for the Trust to make any further comment at this time.”