The ongoing trial involving former teacher Jamie Varley and his partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, has brought renewed attention to the tragic death of 13-month-old Preston Davey, with prosecutors presenting additional digital evidence that they say may reveal a broader pattern of alleged abuse before the child’s death in July 2023.

Preston, who had been placed with the couple as part of an adoption process just four months earlier, was taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital after suffering cardiac and respiratory arrest. Despite efforts by medical staff, he could not be saved.

During proceedings at Preston Crown Court, jurors were shown a 14-minute video recovered from Jamie Varley’s phone. According to prosecutors, the footage showed Preston left alone in a bath while Varley said he had briefly stepped away. The prosecution argues that the video forms part of a larger pattern of alleged neglect and mistreatment, while the defence disputes that interpretation.

Prosecutors have also indicated that investigators recovered additional images and videos from electronic devices belonging to the defendants. These materials are alleged to include recordings of Preston in vulnerable situations, as well as other content that investigators believe may be relevant to the case. The prosecution argues that the evidence demonstrates a pattern of behaviour over several months leading up to Preston’s death.

Among the evidence discussed in court was a separate video reportedly recorded shortly before Preston was taken to hospital. Prosecutors said the footage appeared to show the toddler experiencing breathing difficulties. Varley has stated that he could not recall recording the video and suggested that Preston may have been suffering from a medical episode.

Medical experts also presented findings from post-mortem examinations. According to evidence heard in court, Preston had sustained numerous internal and external injuries, including bruising and a bite mark. Prosecutors argue that these injuries are inconsistent with accidental causes.

Body-worn camera footage from the day Preston was admitted to hospital was also shown to jurors. The recordings reportedly captured Varley in an emotional state while medical teams attempted to save the child.

Jamie Varley, 37, denies charges including murder, Sєxual ᴀssault of a child, child cruelty, and offences relating to indecent images. John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, denies charges including allowing the death of a child and Sєxual abuse offences. Both men have pleaded not guilty and deny all allegations against them.

The case has also prompted wider discussions about safeguarding procedures and adoption systems. Questions are being raised about how a vulnerable child could allegedly suffer extensive injuries over a relatively short period while under official supervision.

As the trial continues, jurors will consider a large body of evidence, including digital records, medical testimony, and statements provided by the defendants, before reaching their verdicts.

Beyond the legal proceedings, Preston Davey’s story has become a reminder of the importance of protecting vulnerable children and ensuring that safeguarding systems are continually reviewed and strengthened.

It is important to remember that the allegations presented in court remain allegations until the judicial process is complete and a verdict is reached.