*"Blackpool Adoption Murder: Couple Convicted After 13-Month-Old’s Death"*

 *"Blackpool Adoption Murder: Couple Convicted After 13-Month-Old’s Death"*

A Blackpool couple have been convicted following the death of their 13-month-old adopted son, Preston Davey, in July 2023.

Jamie Varley, 37, was found guilty of murder and multiple child cruelty and sexual offenses. John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, was convicted of allowing the death of a child, child cruelty, and sexual assault of a child. Sentencing is scheduled for Thursday at Preston Crown Court.

Preston was placed with Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley in April 2023 after spending his first months in foster care. Within four months, concerns were raised after hospital visits for unexplained injuries. Varley initially told police the child had drowned, but medical evidence contradicted this and a post-mortem determined a different cause of death.

During the eight-week trial at Preston Crown Court, the jury heard evidence of repeated abuse and neglect during the short time Preston was in their care. Both men were found guilty on multiple counts related to the abuse, cruelty, and indecent images. Varley was also convicted of murder.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Fallows described the abuse as “wicked acts” that ended Preston’s life. The Crown Prosecution Service called it one of the most disturbing cases they had handled. Oldham Council and the regional adoption agency said an independent Child Safeguarding Practice Review is underway to examine how Preston’s case was managed.

Preston’s birth mother and family were present in court as the verdicts were delivered. Mr Justice Turner thanked jurors for their service and excused them from future jury duty.