Preston Davey was murdered by his adoptive father, Jamie Varley, after a campaign of sexual abuse. Varley and his partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, are being sentenced at Preston Crown Court.
Case Background
Jamie Varley, 37, a former teacher, was convicted of murdering 13-month-old Preston during a sexual assault on July 27, 2023. His partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, faces jail for causing or allowing Preston's death and participating in a joint sexual assault four days earlier.
Preston, born to convicted killer Sarah Davey, was taken into care five days after birth. At nine months, he was adopted by Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley, who had been approved as adoptive parents.
Abuse and Death
Over the following months, Preston endured escalating physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. On July 23, McGowan-Fazakerley joined Varley in an attack on Preston as he slumped over his cot. On July 27, Preston was taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital in cardiac arrest and pronounced dead at 7:18 pm.
Varley was found guilty of murder, grievous bodily harm, sexual assault, cruelty, and making, taking, and distributing indecent images. McGowan-Fazakerley was convicted of causing or allowing Preston's death, cruelty, and sexual assault.
Sentencing
High Court judge Mr. Justice Turner will set a minimum tariff for Varley, who will receive a life sentence. McGowan-Fazakerley's prison term will also be determined.
Reporter Rachel Smith is providing live updates from Preston Crown Court.
Key Moments: Could Preston Have Been Saved?
On at least nine occasions, medical or safeguarding professionals were alerted to concerns about Preston, yet no one intervened. His body bore over 40 injuries at death.
What Happened to Preston Davey?
Preston was born on June 16, 2022, and entered foster care five days later. He was the son of Sarah Davey, convicted of murder in 1998. In April 2023, Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley adopted him. Over four months, he was abused and killed. Varley claimed accidental drowning, but a post-mortem revealed over 40 injuries and internal signs of sexual abuse. Cause of death was acute upper airway obstruction.
Varley was convicted of murder, assault by penetration, cruelty, grievous bodily harm, sexual assault, and indecent image offenses. McGowan-Fazakerley was convicted of allowing death, cruelty, and sexual assault.
