A friend of Jamie Varley, the man convicted of murdering four-month-old Preston Davey, has claimed that Varley was 'determined he wanted a baby' rather than a toddler when the couple adopted the child in 2023. Varley, 37, was given a rare whole life order by a judge last week after being found guilty of the baby's murder. His partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, was jailed for 25 years.
Details of the Abuse
Preston Davey died just four months after being placed with the couple by Oldham Council through the adoption agency Adoption Now. The cause of death was acute upper airways obstruction, caused by either smothering or objects inserted into his mouth. A post-mortem examination revealed 40 external and internal trauma injuries consistent with 'forcible penetration' and sexual abuse. Drowning was ruled out as a cause of death.
Varley had rushed Preston to Blackpool Victoria Hospital on July 27, 2023, claiming he had left the child in the bath for two to three minutes and returned to find him submerged. However, the child's hair was dry, he was wearing a nappy, the bathtub was empty, and no water was found in his lungs. Prosecutor Mr. Wright stated: 'As Preston lay dying, he needed an explanation and the charade then followed.'
Friend's Testimony
After the trial, a female friend of the couple told The Sun that Varley 'dominated' the relationship and was determined to adopt a baby, not an older child. 'He was determined he wanted a baby and not a toddler or older child. Now you have to ask what his motives were all along,' she said. She also claimed Varley 'took charge' of the adoption, took paternity leave, and told McGowan-Fazakerley he would be 'a more natural dad.'
The friend described the couple as a 'poster couple for adoption,' noting that Varley was a finance sales guy and McGowan-Fazakerley a popular teacher. They owned a three-bedroom home in Blackpool with marble floors and chandeliers.
Sinister Side Revealed
Another friend told The Sun that Varley had a 'sinister side' despite appearing 'super-friendly' and 'totally together.' 'There was always something quite dark about him. He always had to be the centre of attention wherever he went,' the friend said. 'John was a much quieter guy who I think could be a bit embarrassed when they were out and about together.'
Neighbours reported hearing Varley shouting in the couple's home, but Adoption Now, the agency covering Lancashire, did not raise any concerns. Oldham Council gave the final approval to place Preston with the couple.
