Netflix planning major Lucy Letby documentary as experts doubt baby killer's conviction

Netflix is reportedly planning a major documentary about Lucy Letby, the former neonatal nurse convicted of murdering seven babies and attempting to kill six more at the Countess of Chester Hospital.

The documentary is expected to feature experts who have raised doubts about the safety of her conviction, a move that could reignite controversy and add to the anguish of the victims' families.

The global streaming service is said to be collaborating with ITN Productions on this project, which would examine the case against Letby and give airtime to voices questioning the validity of her conviction.

This development comes shortly after several experts called on the Government to delay its inquiry into the Letby case, citing concerns about the evidence used to convict her.

One of the key figures reportedly approached for the documentary is Richard Gill, a Dutch statistician who has long argued that Letby's conviction may be a "major miscarriage of justice."

Gill, who is an emeritus professor at Leiden University, has criticised the statistical evidence presented during the trial, particularly the staff rota that linked Letby to 25 baby deaths or collapses. He and other experts believe this evidence may have been misinterpreted.

In an email apparently sent by the documentary's producers to potential contributors, they stated the need to explore all perspectives, including Letby's defense.

The email reportedly reads: "Lucy’s story is complex and layered and we firmly believe that her defense and point of view must be portrayed. We must provide a full and cohesive documentary that explores everyone’s point of view, whilst remaining completely impartial."

The news of the documentary has caused distress among the families of Letby’s victims.

One grieving couple expressed their dismay, urging the filmmakers to consider the impact of their work: "We would like [TV producers] to really think about what they are doing and saying – would they feel comfortable leaving their baby in [Letby’s] care? I think not."

Letby's conviction followed one of the longest murder trials in British history, culminating in her receiving 14 whole life terms, with an additional life term added after a retrial. Despite the conviction, a small group of commentators continue to question the fairness of the trial, fueling ongoing debate about the case.

As Netflix prepares to delve into this highly sensitive subject, the documentary is likely to spark further controversy and debate, both in the UK and internationally. Lady Justice Thirlwall is set to begin a public inquiry into the case on September 10, which may also address some of the concerns that will be highlighted in the documentary.