Jamie Varley, the man convicted of murdering 13-month-old Preston Davey, spent his first night at HMP Wakefield — known as 'Monster Mansion' — 'sobbing and quaking' in his cell as fellow inmates delivered a 'traditional prisoners welcome', according to prison insiders. Furious prisoners reportedly hammered on bars and issued warnings that his time is limited, targeting him over the abuse he inflicted on the toddler.
Whole life order for horrific abuse
Varley, 37, was handed a whole life order at Preston Crown Court last week after an eight-week trial found him guilty of murder, sexual assault, and a catalogue of child sex offences against his adopted 13-month-old son. Preston died on 27 July 2023 after being rushed to hospital. Following sentencing, Varley was immediately transferred to HMP Wakefield, a Category A facility in West Yorkshire that houses some of Britain's most dangerous offenders, including Harold Shipman, Levi Bellfield, Ian Huntley, and Charles Bronson.
Inmates issued threats on arrival
According to a source who spoke exclusively to the Daily Star, Varley was greeted by loud banging and shouting as prisoners anticipated his arrival. 'It was quite the hit home for how the rest of his life will be,' the source said. 'Varley was in for a rude awakening if he thought he would be getting an easy ride. He is arguably one of Britain's most hated men right now, and that stands in the prison too.' The source added that there is 'a bounty on his head' and that other prisoners want to 'be the one to hurt him first'.
Segregation and suicide watch
Varley is currently held in segregation, confined to his cell in isolation with around-the-clock guard monitoring to ensure his safety. Mental health specialists are expected to assess his psychological state, as he remains under 24-hour suicide watch. 'High profile prisoners are often placed on this as a matter of protocol,' the source noted. 'But in this case it is probably called for and a real possibility. What has he got to live for?'
Partner's whereabouts unknown
Varley's partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, who was also involved in the case, is believed to be held at either HMP Manchester (Strangeways) or HMP Full Sutton, though his exact location remains unconfirmed. HMP Wakefield houses between 630 and 750 high-risk offenders, the majority serving lengthy or indeterminate life sentences.
