John McGowan-Fazakerley sentenced to 25 years for death of adopted baby Preston Davey

John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for sexual assault and for allowing the death of his adopted infant son, Preston Davey. The 13‑month‑old child, born to convicted killer Sarah Davey, was placed in the care of Oldham Council shortly after birth and later adopted by McGowan-Fazakerley and his partner, Jamie Varley, 37.

During the baby’s first year he suffered escalating physical, sexual and emotional abuse. McGowan-Fazakerley failed to intervene, and on 23 July participated in a joint attack that left the child dead. Preston was taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital in cardiac arrest and pronounced dead on 27 July.

Jamie Varley was sentenced to a whole‑life order, the judge describing the case as "of the utmost gravity". McGowan-Fazakerley received the 25‑year term, with the court noting his neglect and lack of prior convictions as aggravating factors.