Preston Davey died after collapsing at the home of his adoptive fathers, Jamie Varley and John McGowan-Fazakerley. The couple, who met in Manchester's Gay Village in late 2018, built an Instagram-perfect life in Blackpool, complete with a luxury home and a dog. But behind this veneer lay a sinister reality.
The Couple's Background
Varley, 37, came from a close-knit family in Blackpool, while McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, was privately educated and had a PhD. Their careers flourished: Varley became a teacher, and McGowan-Fazakerley an operations manager. They decided to adopt after attending a family wedding.
Adoption Process
In late 2021, they approached Adoption Now. After vetting, they were approved in January 2023. Preston Davey, born to a killer in prison, was placed with them. His grandmother, Debra Davey, had concerns, but the adoption went ahead.
The Abuse
Within four months, Preston was dead. Varley subjected him to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, capturing it all on camera. McGowan-Fazakerley claimed ignorance, leaving for work each day. Preston suffered 40 non-accidental injuries, including a fractured elbow and evidence of suffocation.
The Trial
Varley maintained his innocence until the trial, when he collapsed in court. McGowan-Fazakerley insisted he was deceived. Both were convicted. DCI Andy Fallows described the couple as 'Instagram ready,' hiding a much darker truth.
