Cheshire Constabulary releases statement after Thirlwall report
It's been released today
Cheshire Constabulary has issued a statement, after the release of the Thirlwall Inquiry Report.
It says: "Today, Tuesday 15 September 2026, the Thirlwall Inquiry Report has been published, after a thorough process spanning three years.
"We will now carefully review the contents of the report and fully consider any relevant recommendations, made by Lady Justice Thirlwall, in light of our ongoing investigations.
"In October 2023, following the lengthy trial and subsequent conviction of Lucy Letby, Cheshire Constabulary launched Operation Duet – an investigation into corporate manslaughter, at the Countess of Chester Hospital.
"This focuses on senior leadership and decision-making to determine whether any criminality has taken place concerning the response to the increased levels of fatalities.
"In March 2025, the scope of the investigation widened, to also include gross negligence manslaughter.
"This is a separate offence to corporate manslaughter and focuses on the grossly negligent action, or inaction, of individuals.
"On Monday 30th June 2025, three individuals, who were part of the senior leadership team at the Countess of Chester Hospital in 2015-2016, were arrested, on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. All three were subsequently bailed pending further enquiries – they remain on bail.
"On Wednesday 22nd April 2026, officers from Cheshire Constabulary executed a search warrant at a property, in connection with Operation Duet. An individual was arrested, on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. They were subsequently bailed pending further enquiries – they remain on bail.
"Both the corporate manslaughter and gross negligence manslaughter elements of the investigation are continuing and there are no set timescales for these.
"Our thoughts remain with the families of the babies – who have always been at the heart of this case."
"We would urge people to avoid any commentary or speculation regarding the investigation itself or the identity of anyone involved as this is unhelpful, could cause distress to the parents of the babies and could have a big impact on this case moving forward."