Ten Healthcare Workers Arrested in Complex Northampton Hospital Investigation
Northamptonshire Police have arrested ten healthcare workers in a multifaceted investigation into serious allegations at St Andrew's Hospital in Northampton. The arrests, which occurred on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, involve charges of wilful neglect and ill treatment, with all individuals currently released on bail as inquiries continue.
Multiple Investigations Launched into Alleged Incidents
Police have initiated several distinct investigations into incidents alleged to have taken place at the private mental health facility, which provides care for hundreds of patients. The most significant probe centers on an assault allegation from July 2025, resulting in eight arrests for suspected wilful neglect and ill treatment by care workers.
In an official statement, Northamptonshire Police emphasized, "This complex investigation is ongoing, with all eight people arrested remaining on bail." Additionally, one person is under investigation regarding the death of a man in February 2025, though four individuals initially arrested for corporate manslaughter and gross negligence manslaughter in that case have been released without further action.
Further Cases and Dropped Investigations
Detectives have also launched an investigation into an alleged assault in June 2025, with a woman arrested on suspicion of assault and ill treatment before being bailed. Another case involved the death of a teenage girl in October 2024, initially probed for corporate manslaughter and gross negligence manslaughter, but later discontinued.
Northamptonshire Police stated, "Following a robust examination of the evidence, and in consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service, it has been decided that no further action will be taken in relation to this incident." A report will be prepared for the coroner ahead of an inquest.
Police and Hospital Responses
A police spokesperson confirmed that detectives from CID and the major crime team are involved, maintaining contact with the Care Quality Commission due to the investigations' nature. They urged anyone with information to come forward, highlighting their commitment to establishing the facts in each incident.
St Andrew's Healthcare, responding to the arrests, asserted a zero-tolerance approach to poor practice, stating they immediately reported the cases to police. A spokesperson said, "We acknowledge that care at our Northampton hospital hasn't always met the standards every patient deserves, and we are sorry to those affected."
The charity has launched an urgent action plan to strengthen care quality, including new training for frontline staff, emphasizing patient safety as their highest priority. One case has been closed by police with no further action required, while others remain ongoing.
