Preston, United Kingdom – A jury has convicted former teacher Jamie Varley, 37, of murdering 13-month-old Preston Elijah Davey, a child he and his partner were in the process of adopting.

Varley’s partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, was also found guilty of causing or allowing the child’s death, along with charges of child cruelty and sexual assault.

Preston had been described as a healthy, happy baby during his first nine months in foster care. He was placed with Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley in March 2023. Just four months later, on July 27, 2023, he was rushed to the hospital unconscious and later pronounced dead.

A postmortem revealed Preston had suffered dozens of injuries, including extensive bruising, internal injuries, and a healing fracture. Medical experts determined the cause of death was acute upper airway obstruction. Prosecutors argued the child was subjected to repeated abuse, including sexual offenses, while in the couple’s care.

Varley claimed Preston had drowned in the bath, but evidence presented in court contradicted this account. The jury deliberated for just over two days before delivering unanimous guilty verdicts following a seven-week trial at Preston Crown Court.

Both men remain in custody and are scheduled for sentencing on June 18.

The case has shocked the public and raised serious questions about the adoption and oversight process. Preston’s short life ended in what prosecutors described as a pattern of cruelty and missed opportunities for intervention.

This conviction brings a measure of justice for little Preston, who never reached his second birthday. The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for stronger safeguards in child protection systems.

Our hearts go out to anyone who loved and cared for Preston during his brief life.