John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, and his partner Jamie Varley, 37, are standing trial at Preston Crown Court accused of abusing and causing the death of their adopted 13-month-old son, Preston Davey, in Blackpool in July 2023. The charges against them include murder, child cruelty, and sexual assault. Both men deny all allegations as the trial proceeds.
McGowan-Fazakerley told police that the couple had wanted to start a family and felt the timing was right. Preston was adopted by the couple on 1 April 2023 after spending his first 10 months in foster care following his birth in June 2022. The men described their child as “so perfect” and “everything we ever wanted.”
During the trial, it was revealed that Preston was admitted to hospital three times in less than four months after moving in with the couple. Prosecutors allege that the baby suffered at least 40 traumatic injuries, was sexually abused, routinely ill-treated, and that indecent images were taken of him. Varley allegedly admitted to leaving Preston submerged in a bath and having “dark thoughts” about the child.
Varley, who took a year off as head of year at a high school to care for Preston, denies all charges including murder, manslaughter, multiple counts of cruelty, grievous bodily harm, sexual assault, and numerous related indecency offences. He told police that the baby was briefly left in the bath but denies any wrongdoing.
McGowan-Fazakerley also denies causing or allowing Preston’s death, as well as the child cruelty and sexual assault charges. He described the adoption process and settling into family life as positive, stating that they were “growing” and “learning” together with the baby.
The trial has been adjourned until today, with further updates expected. Both men remain in custody as the court continues to hear evidence related to the tragic death of Preston Davey.
Originally published by UKNIP.
