A former teacher from Blackpool has been jailed for life after the murder of his adopted 13 month old son, Preston Davey, following months of severe abuse.
The court heard that Preston died in July 2023 after suffering repeated physical, sexual, and emotional harm over the final four months of his life. A post mortem later revealed around 40 separate injuries on the child’s body.
False claim of drowning rejected
Jamie Varley, 37, told police that Preston had drowned accidentally in a bath. Investigators later found strong evidence of long term abuse, which directly contradicted his account.
Medical findings showed injuries consistent with ongoing violence, not a single accident. The severity of the injuries led to murder charges.
Co accused also sentenced
Varley’s partner, John McGowan Fazakerley, 32, was also sentenced in the case. He was found guilty of sexual assault, child cruelty, and allowing the death of a child. He received a 25 year prison sentence.
Court ruling and whole life order
During sentencing, the judge described Preston’s suffering as prolonged and severe. The court confirmed that Varley would serve a whole life order. This means he will never be released from prison, except in rare compassionate situations.
The judge stated that the crime involved extreme levels of violence and neglect. He told Varley directly that he would remain in prison for the rest of his life with no chance of parole.
Family impact
Preston’s biological mother and grandmother attended court and reacted with grief during the hearing.
In a victim impact statement, Preston’s mother described ongoing emotional pain and distress. She said she is haunted by thoughts of what her child endured in his final months and struggles daily with the loss.
