The Children's Commissioner for England has expressed deep concern over the murder of 13-month-old Preston Davey, describing it as a 'massive safeguarding failure' and pledging to pursue answers relentlessly.
Commissioner's Reaction
Dame Rachel De Souza stated on BBC Radio 4's Today programme that she has a 'huge number of questions' regarding the case. She highlighted that Preston was taken to hospital with bruises shortly after his adoption, but a consultant dismissed the injuries. 'Did they dismiss it because it was a teacher adopter? Did that evil abuser hoodwink people under that professional guise?' she questioned.
The social worker saw Preston just 20 days before his death. De Souza wants to know whether 'the correct level of professional curiosity was there.' She vowed not to let go until she has answers.
Call for Child Protection Authority
De Souza urged the Government to establish a Child Protection Authority immediately, stating, 'The state failed Preston. We need a child protection authority with teeth to hold accountability and ensure the system isn't fragmented.'
Background of the Case
Preston was adopted at nine months old by Jamie Varley, 37, a former secondary school head of year, and his partner John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32. Over the next four months, Preston was subjected to routine physical and emotional abuse, sexual assault, and indecent photographs were taken. Varley was convicted of murder and 24 other offences, while McGowan-Fazakerley was found guilty of allowing the death of a child and three other offences. Both are to be sentenced.
Official Responses
Oldham Council announced an independent Child Safeguarding Practice Review, stating, 'The death of any child is a tragedy, but this is a particularly heart-wrenching and disturbing case.' Adoption Now, the agency involved, said it follows a strict and rigorous process and that an independent review is underway.
Varley's convictions include murder, assault by penetration, child cruelty, grievous bodily harm, sexual assault, and multiple counts of taking and distributing indecent images. McGowan-Fazakerley was convicted of allowing the death of a child, child cruelty, and sexual assault.
