In early 2025, an international panel of medical experts presented findings in a high-profile defense case for Lucy Letby. Led by Canadian neonatal specialist Dr. Shoo Lee, the panel asserted that there were alternative explanations for Letby’s convictions. Their investigations concluded that the deaths and injuries attributed to Letby were primarily due to natural causes or care mismanagement.
Key Findings by Medical Experts
Dr. Shoo Lee became involved after recognizing that a medical paper he co-authored in 1989 had been misinterpreted in the prosecution’s arguments against Letby. During a press conference, he stated, “We did not find any murders.” He emphasized concerns about a young woman being wrongfully incarcerated for crimes she did not commit.
Submission to Criminal Cases Review Commission
The panel’s conclusions were submitted to the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) as part of Letby’s legal team’s application for a reconsideration of her case. The application seeks to explore the possibility of a miscarriage of justice in light of the new evidence presented.
Response from Justice Advocates
Dr. John Gibbs, a consultant involved in the initial investigation, expressed skepticism regarding the panel’s findings. He acknowledged the staffing shortages in the NHS but pointed out that similar pressures had existed before 2015 and 2016 without a comparable rise in fatalities.
Gibbs faced accusations from online detractors who believed Letby was innocent, claiming that he and other consultants were attempting to cover up their mistakes. In response, he emphasized the troubling nature of blaming colleagues for serious crimes without accountability.
Reflections on Justice
He expressed deep remorse over the situation, admitting, “I live with two guilts. Guilt that we let the babies down, and tiny, tiny guilt—did we get the wrong person?” Gibbs maintains that he does not believe a miscarriage of justice occurred. However, he noted a lingering worry regarding the certainty of justice, remarking, “No one actually saw her do it.”
- Panel Leadership: Dr. Shoo Lee, Canadian neonatal expert
- Year of Findings: 2025
- Key Assertion: Deaths due to natural causes or medical care errors
- Focus: Potential miscarriage of justice in Lucy Letby’s case
The developments in this case highlight ongoing debates regarding medical accountability and justice within the healthcare system. El-Balad will continue to follow updates as new information emerges.
