A man has denied murder and sexual abuse of a 13-month-old baby in a trial at Preston Crown Court. Jamie Varley, 37, and John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, were charged with offences against Preston Davey, who they were in the process of adopting.
Preston, known as Elijah while in the couple's care, died after being taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital on July 27, 2023. Varley pleaded not guilty to murder, two counts of assault by penetration, four counts of cruelty, grievous bodily harm, and 14 charges relating to indecent images. McGowan-Fazakerley denied causing or allowing the death of a child, two counts of cruelty, and sexual assault.
The prosecution argued that Varley murdered Preston, with manslaughter as an alternative. The judge instructed the jury to consider each count separately and not to feel pressured by time. He clarified that a photo of Preston's bottom taken on Varley's phone was agreed to have been shown to his partner, and that attempts at CPR in the car may explain some bruises.
The jury heard that pathologists disagreed over alleged injuries found during autopsy, with the prosecution claiming they were consistent with sexual abuse. The judge noted that nobody suggested these injuries caused death, but they were relevant to the context of alleged abuse.
Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley were remanded in custody and are due to be sentenced on June 18. The jury continues deliberations.
