Jamie Varley, a 37-year-old teacher, was sentenced to a whole-life order for the murder of 13-month-old Preston Davey, whom he abused physically, sexually, and emotionally over four months. Preston suffered 40 traumatic injuries, and the cause of death was acute upper airways obstruction by an object inserted into his mouth. Varley's partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, received 25 years for allowing the death.
Preston Davey's Horrific Abuse
Preston was placed with Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley in Blackpool after nine months with foster parents. The couple treated him as a 'plaything,' routinely assaulting him. Video evidence showed Preston struggling to breathe after a sexual assault. Indecent images captured four days before his death showed him hanging over his cot, lips blue from oxygen deprivation. On July 27, Preston was found submerged in a bath, but drowning was ruled out. The trial so traumatised jurors that they were excused from future jury service.
Baby P: Peter Connelly
Peter Connelly, known as 'Baby P,' died at 17 months with over 50 injuries, including a broken back, fractured shin, and missing fingernail. His mother Tracey Connelly was jailed in 2009 for causing or allowing his death. She was released in 2013 but recalled for selling naked photos online. After multiple parole rejections, she was deemed low risk in 2022.
Constance Marten and Mark Gordon
Former socialite Constance Marten and rapist Mark Gordon went on the run with baby Victoria after their other children were taken into care. They camped on the South Downs, where Victoria died of hypothermia. Her body was found in a Lidl bag in a shed. In July 2025, a jury found them guilty of manslaughter; both received 14 years.
Lucy Letby: The Neonatal Serial Killer
Lucy Letby, a former neonatal nurse, was convicted in August 2023 of murdering seven infants and attempting to murder seven more at the Countess of Chester Hospital. She injected them with air, poisoned them, and tampered with feeding tubes. She is serving multiple whole-life sentences at HMP Bronzefield, though her case remains controversial with some claiming innocence.
Amelia Dyer: The Victorian Baby Farmer
Amelia Dyer is believed to be Britain's most prolific serial killer, responsible for up to 3,900 infant deaths in the mid-1800s. She offered a kill-for-hire service, charging £10 per baby, strangling them and disposing of bodies in the River Thames. Her 25-year spree ended in 1896 when she was hanged. Dyer, a midwife, advertised adoption services but instead murdered the infants.
