Oldham Council has ordered an independent review into how baby Preston Davey was placed with an adoptive father who sexually abused and then murdered him. The 'Child Safeguarding Practice Review' was announced after a teacher was found guilty of murdering the infant he was in the process of adopting. His partner, a salesman, was convicted of allowing the child's death.
Verdicts in Preston Crown Court
Following a seven-week trial at Preston Crown Court, a jury delivered verdicts against Jamie Varley, 37, and John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32. The couple were adopting Preston Davey when he collapsed at their home in Staining Road, Blackpool, while in Varley's sole care.
Preston's family has demanded answers, stating that 'alarm bells should have been ringing.' Detectives described the crime as 'wicked.'
Background of the Case
The infant, described as 'just beautiful' by foster carers, was healthy when placed with the defendants at nine months old. He had a milk allergy and sleep issues, but a pre-adoption medical found 'no major health concerns.' On April 3, 2023, Preston was placed with the defendants, approved to adopt through Adoption Now, the agency managing adoptions for councils in Greater Manchester and Lancashire.
Over four months, Varley, a former head of year at South Shore Academy, Blackpool, subjected Preston to physical, sexual, and psychological abuse. McGowan-Fazakerley knew of the risk but failed to intervene, a neglect that cost the baby his life.
Medical Emergencies and Death
Preston was taken to hospital three times with breathing difficulties, seizures, and an arm injury. On July 27, 2023, McGowan-Fazakerley returned home to find Preston seriously ill. At Blackpool Victoria Hospital, the 13-month-old was unresponsive and in cardiac arrest. Varley claimed Preston fell from a bath seat, but a post-mortem revealed 40 non-accidental injuries, including signs of sexual abuse hours before death.
Reactions and Reviews
An Oldham Council spokesperson said: 'The death of any child is a tragedy, but this is a particularly heart-wrenching and disturbing case. An independent Child Safeguarding Practice Review is underway to examine the handling of Preston's safeguarding.'
Adoption Now stated: 'This was a deeply upsetting case. We follow a strict and rigorous process in line with legislation and guidance. An independent Child Safeguarding Practice Review is being completed.'
Convictions
Varley was found guilty of murder, two counts of assault by penetration, four counts of cruelty, GBH, and 14 charges related to indecent images. McGowan-Fazakerley was convicted of causing or allowing a child's death, two counts of cruelty, and sexual assault.
As the verdicts were read, Varley covered his mouth and dropped to the floor, while McGowan-Fazakerley stared ahead. Preston's birth mother sobbed in the public gallery, consoled by her own mother.
