Inside Lucy Letby’s Life in Prison from Christmas Movies to Secret Privileges
Lucy Letby, the former nurse serving a whole-life sentence for the murder of seven babies and the attempted murder of six others, spent Christmas day largely confined to her cell but reportedly enjoyed some surprising privileges. Despite her grim circumstances, Letby’s time behind bars at the privately-run HMP Bronzefield in Surrey appears to be less bleak than expected, sources claim.
Having been moved from the notorious HMP Low Newton in Durham, Letby is believed to reside in a single cell equipped with an ensuite shower, desk, and private television. Reports suggest she spent Christmas day alone for at least 22 hours, per prison rules, but was allowed to read, watch TV, and exercise briefly. The access to a private TV, which reportedly allows her to watch Christmas films, has stirred frustration among other inmates, as reported by the Mirror.
A source told The Sun: “Letby seems happy as Larry. She is in a nice cell and on her own. The facilities at Bronzefield are much nicer than most jails because it’s privately run.” The source added that her privileges, including a reported makeover where she dyed her hair brown, have upset fellow prisoners. “She seems to be being treated with kid gloves because of who she is,” the source remarked.
Letby’s social connections in prison have also drawn attention. She allegedly formed a close bond with Michelle Smith, who was convicted of murdering her infant daughter, and Shauna Hoare, convicted for her involvement in the killing of Becky Watts. The trio reportedly spent time together sunbathing, playing board games, and enjoying karaoke nights before being separated. Another inmate commented on their separation, stating: “It’s a good job they’ve been separated. They are the last people you would want associating with each other.”
Letby has also reportedly befriended Beinash Batool, convicted in connection with the death of Sara Sharif. Additionally, it’s claimed she has been granted access to a laptop in her cell, raising questions about the leniency of her treatment. A source noted her unusual camaraderie with medical staff, saying: “She became really chummy with one of the nurses who gave prisoners their daily medication.”
Despite these privileges, experts highlight the challenges Letby faces. Mark Leech, editor of The Prison Oracle, stated that her “restricted status” means she is under close supervision and considered a high-risk inmate. Criminologist Professor Yvonne Jewkes emphasized the dangers she might encounter, including bullying and physical threats.
While Letby’s crimes have made her one of the UK’s most infamous criminals, the conditions of her imprisonment continue to spark debate over the balance between security, punishment, and humane treatment.