Jamie Varley, the man convicted of murdering his adopted son Preston Davey, was 'determined he wanted a baby' rather than an older child, according to a friend. Varley, 37, and his partner John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, adopted the tragic toddler in April 2023. Preston died just four months later after enduring horrific sexual and physical abuse.
Friend Reveals Varley's Preference for a Baby
A female friend told The Sun: 'He was determined he wanted a baby and not a toddler or older child. Now you have to ask what his motives were all along.' The couple were seen as a 'poster couple for adoption' by the agency, with Varley working in finance sales and McGowan-Fazakerley as a teacher. The friend added: 'Who is going to knock back a finance sales guy and a popular teacher?'
Varley was given a rare whole life order after being convicted of Preston's murder, while McGowan-Fazakerley was jailed for 25 years last week.
Relationship Dynamics and Sinister Side
Another friend claimed Varley 'dominated' the relationship after the pair met in Manchester's Gay Village in 2018. He allegedly 'took charge' of the adoption and insisted on taking paternity leave, telling McGowan-Fazakerley he would be 'a more natural dad'. Friends described Varley as 'loud and cringe', noting a sinister side beneath his friendly facade. One pal said: 'There was always something quite dark about him. He always had to be the centre of attention.'
The couple owned a three-bedroom home in Blackpool with marble floors and chandeliers. They bought a £450,000 home just days after Preston's death. They also doted on a miniature pinscher dog named Maximus.
Neighbor Concerns and Agency Oversight
Neighbors reported hearing Varley shouting in the home, but Adoption Now, the agency covering Lancashire, did not raise concerns. Oldham Council gave final approval for the placement. Preston died in July 2023 after four months of sexual abuse. McGowan-Fazakerley was sentenced to 25 years in prison.
