A secondary school teacher who subjected a 13-month-old baby to a horrific catalogue of sexual abuse before killing him has been found guilty of murder. Jamie Varley, 37, faces a life sentence for the death of Preston Davey, who suffocated during sexual abuse. His partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, a sales manager, was also convicted of causing or allowing Preston's death and participating in a sexual assault.
Shocking Betrayal of Trust
Prosecutors described the case as one of the most shocking and horrific they had ever dealt with. The outwardly respectable couple lived in an immaculate home in Blackpool, but prosecutor Peter Wright KC said they subjected Preston to a litany of psychological and sexual ill-treatment over nearly four months. Instead of a loving home, Preston was used as a plaything to satisfy Varley's twisted desires.
Collapse in Court
Varley initially put his hand to his mouth as the jury foreman read the guilty verdicts, before collapsing and being sick in the dock. McGowan-Fazakerley stood motionless. Grandmother Debbie Davey demanded social workers be sacked after it emerged that multiple chances to save Preston had been missed.
Background of Tragedy
Preston was the son of Sarah Davey, now 42, who as a 14-year-old murdered 71-year-old Lily Lilley in 1998. Davey gave birth to Preston in June 2022 while in prison. Social services placed Preston with foster parents, then plans to live with his grandmother were abandoned due to her breast cancer. Adoption tragically led him to Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley.
Trial Details
Following an eight-week trial at Preston Crown Court, Varley was convicted of murder, assault by penetration, sexual assault, causing grievous bodily harm, cruelty, and 14 counts of making or taking indecent images. McGowan-Fazakerley was convicted of causing or allowing death, cruelty, and sexual assault.
Detective Chief Inspector Andy Fallows of Lancashire Police described the investigation as harrowing, saying Preston was betrayed by those who should have loved and cared for him. Varley claimed Preston drowned in the bath, but a post-mortem revealed he died from acute upper airways obstruction with over 40 bruises and injuries. Preston had been taken to hospital three times previously with breathing difficulties, rash, and a broken elbow.
Grandmother Debbie Davey said social workers should be sacked. Oldham Council confirmed no staff have been disciplined but an independent child safeguarding practice review has been launched. CPS specialist prosecutor Karen Tonge said it is difficult to comprehend how those who should have loved him could inflict such harm. Sentencing is set for Thursday.
