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Father’s Displeasure with Lucy Letby’s Appeal
A father whose baby was targeted by Lucy Letby in an attempted murder expressed his strong emotions regarding her decision to appeal her convictions.
Letby, who was sentenced to a whole life order for the murder of seven babies and attempted murder of six others, initiated her appeal process.
The father’s sentiments reflect a sense of disgust and anger at the prospect of Letby seeking to overturn her convictions, adding to the pain already endured by the victims’ families.
Lucy Letby’s Appeal Launch
Lucy Letby, the former nurse convicted of heinous crimes, launched her appeal against the convictions that led to her life sentence.
The 33-year-old nurse, originally from Hereford, was found guilty of attacking infants in the neonatal unit of the Countess of Chester Hospital in 2015 and 2016.
Despite her convictions, Letby has consistently denied all charges and even chose not to attend her sentencing at Manchester Crown Court.
Scientific Consultant’s Campaign
Sarrita Adams, a scientific consultant based in California, initiated a fundraising campaign challenging the basis of Lucy Letby’s conviction.
Adams, representing a group called Science on Trial, argued that Letby’s case relied on “unreliable expert advice” and a misunderstanding of scientific evidence.
The group contends that Letby’s conviction might constitute one of the most significant miscarriages of justice witnessed in the UK.
Awaiting a Retrial Decision
While Letby was cleared of two counts of attempted murder, the jury was unable to reach verdicts on six counts related to five children.
The Crown Prosecution Service is expected to announce whether it seeks a retrial on these counts at a hearing scheduled for September 25 in Manchester.
It is anticipated that Letby will use this hearing to formally launch her appeal against all her convictions.
The Appeal Process
To initiate an appeal, individuals convicted of a crime have 28 days to request permission to appeal. A judge will review Letby’s application and decide whether to grant permission.
If granted, the appeal will be heard by three senior judges. In the event of a rejected application, Letby can still renew it before a panel of two or three judges.
An appeal can proceed if there are grounds to argue that the conviction is unsafe, and if the judges agree, they can quash the conviction and order a retrial.
Independent Inquiry Announced
The Department of Health has announced an independent inquiry into Letby’s case, focusing on the circumstances surrounding the deaths and incidents, including how concerns raised by clinicians were addressed.
This inquiry aims to shed light on the handling of the case and potential systemic issues.
Leading the Inquiry
Lady Justice Thirlwall, a senior judge who sits in the Court of Appeal, has been appointed to lead the inquiry into Letby’s crimes.
Health Secretary Steve Barclay emphasized her extensive experience as both a judge and barrister. The inquiry will have the authority to compel witnesses, including former and current staff of the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, to provide evidence.
Lucy Letby’s Place in Criminal History
Lucy Letby’s sentencing marked her as only the fourth woman in UK history to receive a whole life order.
Such orders are the most severe penalties available in the UK’s criminal justice system and are reserved for individuals who commit the most heinous crimes.
Letby’s conviction places her among the country’s most dangerous offenders, who are unlikely to ever be released, except in exceptional compassionate circumstances. Only three other women have faced such a punishment in the past.
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