BBC Scotland has commissioned an eight part investigative podcast titled Disclosure Investigates: Killer on The Ward. The series examines the 2008 conviction of Colin Norris, a former Glasgow nurse convicted of murdering four elderly patients and attempting to murder a fifth in Leeds hospitals. Journalist Louise Shorter presents the series, which is scheduled for release on BBC Sounds on 24 September.
The production reviews medical records and witness statements relating to suspected insulin poisoning of five women recovering from hip surgery in West Yorkshire. It includes a review of evidence considered by the Criminal Cases Review Commission and examines scientific data regarding the deaths. The series features interviews with June Morrison, the mother of Colin Norris, and the son of patient Ethel Hall.
Commissioning editor Heather Kane-Darling stated the series examines the appeal process and the British justice system. The Court of Appeal upheld the original convictions, and West Yorkshire Constabulary maintains that the verdict delivered justice for the victims. The podcast details the legal process following the Court of Appeal ruling and the subsequent refusal of the Supreme Court to hear the case.
The legal team for Colin Norris is currently taking the case to the European Court of Human Rights. This action follows a claim that the legal threshold for new evidence to be presented to a jury has been met. No serial killer has ever been granted parole in the United Kingdom.