Lucy Letby: Baby G, Part 1 “Just a little tiny thing”
Dec 12, 2022
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Lucy Letby, accused of attempting to kill Baby G, is examined in the trial. Former chief crown prosecutor, Nazir Afzal, discusses the difficulties faced by lawyers in this case. Topics include the complications faced by Baby G and the observations made by nurses and doctors. The deteriorating condition of Baby G and Lucy's concern are also discussed. The podcast also covers the use of technology in courtrooms and upcoming accusations against Lucy Letby.
The podcast discusses the shocking allegations that Lucy Letby, a neonatal nurse, intentionally harmed premature babies entrusted to her care at the Countess of Chester Hospital.
The trial highlights the difficulties and advancements in technology faced by lawyers, emphasizing the importance of a fair trial.
Deep dives
Overview of the Trial
This podcast episode covers the highly anticipated trial of Lucy Letby, a neonatal nurse accused of murdering seven infants and attempting to murder ten others at the Countess of Chester Hospital. The trial involves shocking allegations of babies being harmed at the hands of the person entrusted to care for them. The prosecution presents evidence that Letby gave excessive milk and injected air into Baby G's stomach, causing her to stop breathing and become seriously ill. Letby denies all the charges. The episode provides details from the court proceedings and highlights the significance of a fair trial.
Baby G's Premature Birth and Challenges
Baby G, the most premature baby involved in the case, was born at just 23 weeks and six days gestation. She weighed only one pound two ounces and faced numerous health challenges. Baby G's mother described the distressing moment her daughter was born in the hospital's bathroom. Despite her difficult start, Baby G fought against the odds and gradually improved over time. She was transferred to the Countess of Chester Hospital's neonatal unit, where she was doing well until a fateful night shift when she suddenly vomited and collapsed.
The Alleged Sabotage of Baby G's Care
The prosecution alleges that Lucy Letby sabotaged Baby G's care, resulting in her collapse. Letby, not assigned as Baby G's designated nurse, was responsible for a sicker baby in the intensive care room. Baby G's designated nurse reported that the baby was fine in the hours leading up to her collapse, and she fed her the usual amount of expressed breast milk. However, after the designated nurse went on her break, Baby G vomited violently. Letby and another nurse immediately attended to her, but her condition rapidly deteriorated. Medical notes revealed that excess milk and air were aspirated from Baby G's stomach, indicating deliberate administration. Despite efforts to stabilize her, Baby G's condition worsened, and she was transferred to intensive care. Letby finished her shift and later exchanged text messages expressing concern for Baby G's worsening condition. Baby G was eventually transferred back to Arrow Park Hospital for treatment. The defense argues that Baby G's deterioration was caused by an infection and not due to Letby's actions.
In this episode, Caroline and Liz examine what happened to Baby G, the most premature baby in this case, who Lucy Letby allegedly tried to kill three times in a fortnight.
We also chat to former chief crown prosecutor, Nazir Afzal, about the difficulties faced by lawyers preparing and running such a long and complicated trial, and why advances in technology have revolutionised courtrooms.