Adoptive father ‘sexually abused and smothered baby’

A former high school teacher and his partner face charges of sexually abusing and smothering a baby boy they adopted just months before his death. The prosecution presented evidence that Preston Davey, who passed away in July 2023, endured 40 severe injuries during his short life. Jamie Varley, 37, is accused of murder, manslaughter, and multiple counts of sexual and physical abuse, alongside 25 other charges. His partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, is charged with causing or allowing the child’s death and four additional offenses. Both men deny all allegations.

Preston Crown Court revealed that the child was admitted to Blackpool Victoria Hospital three times within four months of being placed with the defendants. The boy, born on 16 June 2022, lived at the couple’s home on Staining Road, Blackpool, after being entrusted to them for adoption at nine months old. On 27 July, Varley took the child to the hospital’s emergency department around 18:30 BST. By the time medical staff arrived, Preston was unconscious and in cardiac arrest, ultimately succumbing to his injuries less than an hour later.

Prosecution highlights ‘sinister’ abuse

Peter Wright KC, representing the prosecution, emphasized the tragic nature of the case. “This is a deeply emotional trial,” he stated. “The death of a very young child is bound to stir strong reactions.” Wright noted that Preston had been a “perfectly healthy boy” prior to his adoption. However, the boy’s condition deteriorated rapidly, with frequent hospital visits and signs of severe mistreatment. The post-mortem confirmed the cause of death as acute upper airway obstruction, resulting from smothering.

“The evidence shows this was not an accident or natural occurrence. It was a deliberate act by someone responsible for the child’s safety,” Wright said. “We are certain the person who killed Preston Davey is Jamie Varley.”

The investigation uncovered that Varley had sexually assaulted Preston on the day of his death, causing internal injuries. While the child was left alone with Varley, McGowan-Fazakerley was at work. Detectives found videos on Varley’s phone depicting the boy lying on a bed with visible signs of respiratory distress, yet no immediate medical intervention was sought. The prosecution argued that both men were implicated in the abuse, with Varley bearing primary responsibility for the child’s death.

Varley faces 13 counts of indecent photography and one charge of distributing such material, in addition to sexual assault and physical cruelty charges. McGowan-Fazakerley is accused of failing to protect the child. The trial continues as the jury weighs the evidence. For updates, follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X, and Instagram, or listen to BBC Sounds for the latest on BBC Radio Lancashire. Story ideas can be shared via WhatsApp at 0808 100 2230.