Jamie Varley, 37, the former high school head of year who was given a whole-life sentence last month for the murder of 13-month-old Preston Davey, appeared in court again on Monday to correct a sentencing oversight. Varley, described by detectives as 'evil' and a 'sadist', appeared via videolink from HMP Wakefield, known as 'Monster Mansion', at Preston Crown Court for a brief two-minute hearing under the 'slip rule', which allows judges to rectify legal errors.
Omitted sexual assault charge addressed
When Varley was sentenced on June 18 for murder and 24 other offences, he had not been sentenced for one count of sexual assault. At Monday's hearing, Mr Justice Turner, also appearing via videolink, sentenced Varley to seven years in prison on count 12, the sexual assault of the child, to run concurrently with his other sentences. The additional term has no practical effect as Varley was already given a whole-life order, meaning he will never be released.
Varley, wearing a striped jumper, spoke only to confirm his identity, with his hands clasped in front of his face. The hearing lasted approximately two minutes.
Partner also resentenced
Varley's partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, a former public schoolboy, also appeared via videolink from HMP Preston. He was jailed for 25 years for allowing the abuse and participating in the sexual abuse of Preston. The couple adopted Preston when he was nine months old, and he was murdered four months later at their Blackpool home in July 2023 after a campaign of 'unremitting abuse'.
Detectives said the crimes had 'shocked the nation', with Preston treated as a 'plaything' and routinely sexually assaulted and physically abused. A social services investigation is ongoing.
