A former work colleague of Jamie Varley, the man sentenced to a whole life term for killing 13-month-old Preston Davey, has suggested that Varley may have abused the baby after discovering his partner had been unfaithful. The woman, who worked with Varley, told The Sun that Varley allegedly found messages on his partner John McGowan-Fazakerley's phone indicating an ongoing affair.
Alleged Infidelity as Motive
“He’d found out that John had cheated on him and I think he took it out on the baby,” the source said. “I think it was an ongoing affair and Jamie found some messages on his phone. I assume it happened in Manchester because that was where John worked. Jamie found out about it and it caused a lot of problems. I think Jamie took his hatred and anger at John’s cheating out on Preston.”
Preston Davey died at just 13 months old after suffering 40 internal and external injuries. He was rushed to hospital but could not be saved. Varley, a former teacher, initially claimed the baby drowned in the bath, but was convicted and sentenced to a whole life order.
Partner Sentenced to 25 Years
John McGowan-Fazakerley, Varley's partner, was handed a 25-year jail term for his role in the abuse. The couple had adopted Preston, who was subjected to horrific abuse before his death.
Varley Attempts to Change Identity in Prison
Reports have emerged that Varley is attempting to change his name to protect himself from vigilante attacks while incarcerated. Just days after being sent to HMP Wakefield, known as “Monster Mansion” due to its high-profile inmates, Varley is said to have assumed the name Harry Robb. He has reportedly applied to change his name by deed poll, a process costing £53.05, and added the middle name Jae.
A prison source told the Daily Mail: “He has changed his name to Harry Jae Robb in the hope of giving himself anonymity. He’s absolutely petrified. There have already been threats against him and he thinks that by changing his name, people are less likely to recognise him and know who he is. He knows he has a huge target on his back and he thinks his new name will make him safer and will help him escape vigilante attacks.”
For emotional support, the Samaritans can be reached 24 hours a day on 116 123, by email at jo@samaritans.org, or in person at a local branch.
