Cops to launch criminal probe into dozens of newborn baby deaths
Nottinghamshire Police are now preparing to launch their own investigation following some of the findings.
The review, led by Donna Ockenden, could end up being the NHS’s biggest maternity scandal.
Chief Constable Kate Meynell said: “We want to work alongside the review but also ensure that we do not hinder its progress.
“However, I am in a position to say we are preparing to launch a police investigation.
“I have appointed the Assistant Chief Constable, Rob Griffin to oversee the preparations and the subsequent investigation.
“We are currently looking at the work being done in Shrewsbury and Telford by West Mercia Police to understand how they conducted their investigation alongside Donna Ockenden’s review and any lessons learnt.
“Now we have met with Donna Ockenden we plan to hold preliminary discussions with some local families in the near future.”
The review is looking into failings at the trust’s maternity units at the Queen’s Medical Centre and City Hospital over recent years.
The trust was was ordered to make “significant and immediate improvements” to its maternity services amid growing concerns patients were not safe.
So far, 1,266 families have contacted the team directly to express their fears.
A statement issued on behalf of the parents said: “We welcome the long-awaited news of this police investigation and we are very grateful to the Chief Constable Kate Meynell for her decision.
“There will be a wealth of information from victim families for her team to use.
Cops to launch criminal probe into dozens of newborn baby deaths
