Last Updated on June 16, 2025
A shocking case has emerged in the UK, where two gay men charged with the rape and murder of 13-month-old Preston Davey were in the process of adopting him.
On June 12, 2025, authorities charged Jamie Varley, 36, with murder and multiple sexual and cruelty offenses, while John McGowan-Fazakerley, 31, faces charges for allowing the child’s death.
The tragic events surrounding Preston’s arrival at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on July 27, 2023, have sparked intense debates about adoption safety. He arrived unresponsive and passed away shortly after, leading to urgent discussions.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) brought forth serious charges against Varley, which include murder and ten counts of taking indecent photos. McGowan-Fazakerley was also charged for being complicit in the death and sexual assault.
Additionally, both men, from Grimsargh near Preston, were adopting the infant, highlighting potential flaws in vetting processes.
Upon investigation, authorities discovered a distressing history of abuse that ultimately led to Preston’s demise. Varley is facing charges of cruelty and assault, while McGowan-Fazakerley has been charged with acts of cruelty according to the CPS.
Moreover, police re-arrested both on June 11, 2025, after a thorough probe, charging them the next day. The men’s relocation from Blackpool to Grimsargh suggests an attempt to avoid detection, though evidence linked them to the crime. This case exposes serious gaps in adoption oversight.
A parallel tragedy in the U.S. amplifies these concerns. In Georgia, William Zulock, 34, and Zachary Zulock, 36, a gay couple, received life sentences with 100 years without parole for sexually abusing their adopted sons, aged 12 and 10.
Consequently, this Walton County case, reported by The Economic Times on November 19, 2024, involved the brothers enduring prolonged abuse. Furthermore, it underscores similar risks in adoption systems, connecting to Preston’s case.
Gays and lesbians should NEVER be allowed to adopt children. Rest in peace to this beautiful child.
My blood is boiling!
— Myron Gaines (@MyronGainesX) June 16, 2025
The public has reacted with fury, demanding tighter adoption laws over the rape and murder of Preston. Social media reflects widespread anger, with calls for accountability growing louder.
This case triggers calls for policy changes. The CPS and Lancashire Police worked closely, yet the abuse escaped notice until Preston’s death. Therefore, advocates push to ban gay couples from adopting and demand stricter background checks and home monitoring.
The rape and murder of Preston Davey by his adoptive guardians expose severe adoption flaws. These issues sharply highlight the dangers of gay men adopting children. Pressure mounts for stronger safeguards. These aim to protect children from predators in the LGBT community. Updates will track the legal process.
