Doctor Instructed to Apologise after Referring to Lucy Letby as ‘Murderer’ Years before Arrest
A doctor was directed by hospital management to issue an apology to Lucy Letby over allegations of branding her a murderer more than two years before her eventual arrest, a public inquiry disclosed. Obstetrician Dr Jim McCormack reportedly made the comment during a meeting involving medical professionals and senior nursing staff following the unexpected deaths of two triplets at the neonatal unit of the Countess of Chester Hospital in June 2016. Dr McCormack, now retired, denied naming Letby and stated he was only made aware of her identity seven months later when requested to offer an apology.
Testifying at the Thirlwall Inquiry regarding Letby’s year-long crime spree, Dr McCormack refuted the assertion that he specifically implicated Letby and highlighted his lack of familiarity with her before the incident. The inquiry heard that senior paediatricians expressed concerns about intentional harm to babies by a nurse on the unit. Despite Dr McCormack’s denial, hospital authorities insisted that he apologise to Letby after his reported remark was documented in an HR report related to her grievance procedure following her transfer from patient duties.
Following pressure from hospital executives, Dr McCormack eventually sent a letter of apology to Letby in March 2017, expressing regret for any distress caused without admitting to calling her a murderer. He expressed disappointment in the lack of verification by the HR department regarding the alleged comment. Letby, who was convicted of murdering seven infants and attempting to murder others, was permitted to continue working at the hospital until her arrest in July 2018.
The ongoing inquiry, presided over by Lady Justice Thirwall, aims to unravel the circumstances surrounding Letby’s actions with findings expected to be released by late autumn 2025. Letby, now serving multiple life sentences, was found guilty of heinous crimes committed between 2015 and 2016. The public scrutiny into incidents at the Countess of Chester Hospital sheds light on the complexities surrounding Letby’s case and the ramifications of the early allegations made against her.
The developments in the inquiry underscore the importance of clarity and accuracy in handling sensitive issues within healthcare settings, emphasising the need for thorough investigations and responsible communication practices to prevent unwarranted distress and repercussions for individuals involved. As the inquiry continues its deliberations, the spotlight remains on ensuring accountability and addressing potential flaws in the handling of sensitive matters within healthcare institutions to safeguard the well-being of patients and professionals alike.