PRESTON DAVEY CASE: THE 40 INJURIES THAT REVEALED A FOUR-MONTH PATTERN OF ABUSE

The case of 13-month-old Preston Davey exposed a devastating pattern of abuse during the four months he lived with his prospective adoptive parents, Jamie Varley and John McGowan-Fazakerley.

Medical evidence presented at trial showed that Preston suffered more than 40 traumatic injuries, including bruising, internal injuries and a healing fracture to his arm that experts determined was non-accidental.

 THREE HOSPITAL VISITS BEFORE THE FINAL NIGHT

Preston was taken to hospital on several occasions during the final weeks of his life.

One visit involved a fractured arm. Other medical episodes included breathing difficulties and a seizure. Despite the repeated contact with professionals, he remained in the care of the couple.

Investigators later recovered photographs and videos from Varley’s phone that prosecutors used to demonstrate incidents of cruelty and abuse.

THE FINAL HOURS

On July 27, 2023, Preston was taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital unconscious and in cardiac arrest.

Varley claimed that Preston had accidentally become submerged in a bath. But doctors found no medical evidence supporting drowning. Preston’s hair was dry, he was still wearing a nappy and there was no evidence that he had swallowed water.

A pathologist concluded that Preston died from acute upper-airway obstruction, rather than drowning. The prosecution argued that Varley was responsible.

THE COURT’S VERDICT

After an eight-week trial, Jamie Varley was convicted of murder and multiple child-cruelty and sexual offences.

His partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, was convicted of allowing a child’s death, child cruelty and sexual assault.

On June 18, 2026, Varley received a whole-life order, meaning he will remain imprisoned for the rest of his life without parole. McGowan-Fazakerley was sentenced to 25 years in prison.

 THE QUESTIONS THAT REMAIN

The criminal trial established the abuse and the responsibility of the two defendants. But the case has also raised difficult safeguarding questions.

Preston had been seen by doctors, nurses and social workers and had been taken to hospital multiple times before his final emergency. An independent safeguarding review has now resumed to examine whether opportunities to protect him were missed.

Forty injuries. Multiple warning signs. Repeated contact with professionals.

And a little boy who was ultimately failed by the people entrusted with his care.

The convictions are final for now — but the safeguarding review may reveal how Preston’s suffering continued for so long without being stopped.