A journalist who witnessed the sentencing of Preston Davey's adoptive fathers has described the harrowing cries of his birth mother as an unforgettable sound. Jamie Varley, 37, received a whole life order for murdering the 13-month-old, while John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, was sentenced to 25 years for allowing the death, child cruelty, and sexual assault.
Courtroom Scenes
Outside Preston Crown Court, Sarah Davey, Preston's birth mother, wept throughout the proceedings and fled after the sentences were passed, collapsing into a friend's arms. Her mother, Debra Davey, who had been unable to care for Preston due to breast cancer, appeared frail and was supported by family members.
The judge, Mr Justice Turner, commended the restraint shown in court as devastating details of Preston's abuse were repeated. Police analysis of the couple's phones revealed the horrors Preston endured before his death on July 27, 2023.
Injuries and Abuse
At the time of his death, Preston had suffered 40 external and internal injuries consistent with forcible penetration and sexual abuse. A post-mortem found a fractured left arm, internal bruising to his throat, bottom, and bladder, and bleeding in the lungs.
Varley, who had previously vomited in the dock when found guilty, remained emotionless during victim impact statements. Sarah Davey's statement read: 'The day he was taken from me was one of the worst days of my life. Every single day, I live with the unimaginable pain of wondering what he went through.'
Defendants' Demeanor
Varley, once a well-regarded textiles teacher, appeared defeated, with grey skin and sunken eyes. McGowan-Fazakerley, a former sales manager, sat upright and expressionless in a crisp white shirt, occasionally sipping water. The pair, once partners, showed no connection; McGowan-Fazakerley had turned on Varley during the trial.
Statements from Preston's biological father, Gary Nolan, and foster mother, Sandra Cooper, highlighted the lasting trauma. Nolan described turning to alcohol, while Cooper said she struggles with mistrust and anxiety about placing foster children with adoptive families.
Paul Cooper, Preston's foster father, said he wakes up three or four times a night thinking about the boy. The case has shocked the community, with members of the public attending court to show support for Preston's family.
One attendee noted that the defendants' middle-class charm helped conceal their depravity. Their clean, spacious home with chandeliers and a pet dog belied the horrors within.
