Three Former Senior Leaders at Countess of Chester Hospital Arrested Over Manslaughter Allegations
The individuals, who held leadership roles at the hospital during 2015 and 2016, remain unnamed and have since been released on bail pending further investigation.
This development follows the conviction of Lucy Letby, 35, who was found guilty of murdering seven infants and attempting to murder seven others between June 2015 and June 2016. Letby worked in the hospital's neonatal unit during this period and is now considered the UK's worst modern serial killer.
In the wake of Letby's conviction, Cheshire Constabulary launched an investigation into possible corporate manslaughter offences related to the hospital's leadership and response to the unusually high number of infant fatalities. In March 2025, the investigation's scope expanded to include allegations of gross negligence manslaughter against individuals.
Detective Superintendent Paul Hughes, the Senior Investigating Officer for Operation Duet, stated:
'In October 2023, following Lucy Letby's trial and conviction, we began looking into potential corporate manslaughter at the Countess of Chester Hospital, focusing on senior leadership decisions during the period of increased fatalities. In March 2025, the investigation was broadened to include gross negligence manslaughter concerning individuals' actions or inactions.'
He added:
'It is important to clarify that this investigation does not affect Lucy Letby's convictions. On June 30th, three former senior leaders from 2015-2016 were arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter and have been bailed pending further inquiries. The broader investigations into corporate and gross negligence manslaughter continue, with no set timeline.'
The inquiry also covers deaths and non-fatal collapses at neonatal units at both Countess of Chester Hospital and Liverpool Women's Hospital between 2012 and 2016.
Following Letby's conviction, some medical experts published reports disputing her guilt, a position contested by other professionals and families of the victims.
Lucy Letby is currently held at HMP Bronzefield in Ashford, Surrey, a facility for adult and young female offenders.
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