A court has heard that a former teacher, Jamie Varley, and his partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, adopted a 13-month-old baby named Preston Davey in April 2023. Tragically, the baby was allegedly subjected to ill-treatment, indecent imagery, sexual abuse, and physical assault at the couple’s home in Blackpool, resulting in 40 severe injuries. The child passed away in July 2023 following an incident where Varley is accused of a sexual assault. Varley denies the charges of murder, while his partner denies involvement in the child’s death and other offenses.

The court was told that Varley, who had taken time off work as a school head to adopt a child, expressed difficulties with the baby’s sleeping patterns shortly after Preston moved in with them. In messages to family and friends, Varley made concerning remarks about the child’s behavior and his struggles with sleep deprivation. Despite these challenges, Varley also described Preston as a “ray of sunshine” in some messages.

Before being adopted by Varley and McGowan-Fazakerley, Preston had been under the care of foster parent Sandra Cooper, who described him as a happy and healthy baby. However, after being handed over to the defendants, Preston was taken to the hospital multiple times, including once with a fractured elbow.

Following the tragic incident that led to Preston’s death, a post-mortem examination revealed multiple injuries consistent with non-accidental harm. Varley faces a range of charges, including assault, cruelty, and indecent image offenses, while McGowan-Fazakerley is accused of child cruelty and sexual assault.

The trial has been adjourned until the next hearing scheduled for Wednesday morning.