‘Dedicated Nurse’ Lucy Letby Denies Shocking Baby Killing Claims
Defence Slams ‘Theory of Guilt Based on Coincidence’
Ben Myers KC, defending nurse Lucy Letby, insisted she was a “dedicated nurse” who never intended to harm any babies. Speaking at Manchester Crown Court, Myers dismissed prosecution claims as a “theory of guilt based firmly on coincidence.” He pointed out that premature babies sometimes collapsed even when Letby wasn’t on duty.
Myers highlighted how Letby allegedly used an “effective” method to kill newborns – one that left no trace. “These are allegations of attacks, poisonings, and sabotage,” he said. “The fact that Lucy Letby was present at the time of a child’s deterioration has itself become the explanation for that deterioration, despite no evidence she caused it.”
Heartbreaking Post-It Note Used Against Letby
The defence addressed a crucial piece of evidence – a Post-it note where Letby reportedly wrote in capital letters: “I am evil, I did this.”
“This is the anguished outpouring of a young woman in fear and despair as she realises the enormity of what is being said about her,” Myers argued.
He explained that Letby was going through employment issues, including an NHS grievance procedure, when she jotted down the notes. The note also included phrases like “Not good enough,” “I’m a terrible person,” and “I will never marry or have children.” Myers said these words reflected desperation, not guilt.
He insisted Letby’s habit of keeping notes was “nothing extraordinary,” and urged jurors not to read too much into that.
‘No Evidence, Just Emotion’ – Defence Pleas for Fairness
Myers told jurors: “I couldn’t think of allegations more upsetting or damaging to our instinct to protect children.” He acknowledged the “very great loss and sadness of the families involved,” stressing that nothing he said was to diminish that.
However, he warned about convicting someone without evidence. “There is a real danger that people will simply accept the prosecution’s theory of guilt,” Myers said. “That’s all we’ve got so far – a theory firmly based on coincidence.”
He urged caution, pointing out that errors or system failures could be to blame, rather than Letby alone. “You’re not going to get answers to this case by looking at this woman in the dock right now,” he added.
Letby Declares Innocence as Trial Continues
The 32-year-old Hereford-born nurse denies the charges. She’s accused of deliberately harming and poisoning newborns at Countess of Chester Hospital’s neonatal unit between June 2015 and June 2016.
According to the defence, Letby was passionate about her job, worked hard to care for vulnerable babies and had a full life outside work. Myers said the ongoing trial must separate the person she was during those years and the woman she is now.
“Anyone who approaches this as if it were a done deal is completely wrong,” the barrister warned.
The gripping trial continues.
