
Teacher and partner accused of sexually abusing and murdering 13-month-old baby boy they were adopting human bite mark found on body six weeks before death, court hears
13-month-old Preston Davey was placed for adoption with Jamie Varley, 37, a former secondary school textiles teacher, and his partner John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, in Blackpool in April 2023.
He died on 27 July 2023 after being rushed to hospital. A post-mortem revealed more than 40 separate injuries, including fingertip bruises, slap marks and internal throat damage consistent with asphyxiation.
A photo taken on 12 June 2023 showed a clear 3.5cm human bite mark on the baby’s right buttock, which pathologist Dr Alison Armour confirmed was inconsistent with any accidental fall.
Prosecutors allege Varley routinely sexually abused Preston before smothering him. Varley denies murder, sexual assault by penetration and multiple child cruelty charges. McGowan-Fazakerley denies causing or allowing the death and cruelty.
The trial continues at Preston Crown Court.

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