Jamie Varley, the sadistic school teacher who murdered his 13-month-old adopted baby Preston Davey during a sex attack, has appeared in court alongside his partner to correct a sentencing error.
Court Appearance Under Slip Rule
Varley, 37, appeared at Preston Crown Court via videolink from HMP Wakefield for a brief, two-minute hearing under the “slip rule,” which allows judges to correct legal errors or rectify accidental mistakes. Wearing a stripey jumper, he spoke only to confirm his identity.
After being found guilty of murder and 24 other offences, Varley was given a whole life term last month. However, he had not been sentenced for one count of sexual assault. Mr Justice Turner, also appearing via videolink, sentenced Varley to seven years on count 12, the sexual assault of the child, to run concurrent with his other sentences. This will have no practical effect as Varley was given a whole life term and told he will never be released from jail.
Partner Also Appears
Varley’s partner, ex-public schoolboy John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, also appeared by videolink from HMP Preston. He was jailed for 25 years for allowing Varley’s treatment of the child and taking part in the sexual abuse, following an eight-week trial of the pair.
Preston Davey suffered “unremitting abuse” at the hands of Varley, a former high school head of year. A social services investigation is under way.
