Families of six babies linked to the Lucy Letby case have been unsuccessful in challenging a decision not to bring further charges against the former nurse.

Earlier this year, The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announced that Letby would not face additional charges of murder or attempted murder, saying the evidential test for prosecution "was not met".

The decision followed a review of evidence submitted by Cheshire Constabulary in July 2025, relating to nine babies, including two who died.

Following the CPS decision, the families of six of the nine babies requested a review through the Victims' Right to Review scheme.

After an "extensive" review involving an independent prosecutor, the CPS confirmed the original decision had been upheld.

Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS special crime division said: "An extensive review of the case by a prosecutor independent of the original decisions, involving a re-examination of substantial evidence and material, has now been completed.

"Six offences of attempted murder were reconsidered in relation to six babies, but the review upheld the original decision not to bring any further criminal charges.

"The Crown Prosecution Service has written to the families involved and will offer meetings to answer any further questions."

advertisement

Letby, 36, from Hereford, is currently serving 15 whole-life terms after being convicted of murdering seven babies and attempting to murder seven others at the Countess of Chester Hospital's neonatal unit between June 2015 and June 2016.

She was refused permission to appeal against her convictions on two occasions in 2024.

Following her sentencing, Cheshire Police launched a review of earlier baby deaths and non-fatal collapses at the Countess of Chester Hospital, as well as cases linked to Liverpool Women's Hospital, where Letby trained, dating back to 2012.

The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), which investigates potential miscarriages of justice, is now considering evidence submitted on Letby's behalf.

The case being presented to the CCRC includes evidence from an international panel of medical experts who argue that poor medical care and natural causes may have contributed to the babies' collapses.

A public inquiry led by Lady Justice Thirlwall into how Letby was able to commit her crimes is due to publish its findings later this year, with a date yet to be announced.