Preston Davey trial hears father could not account for injuries

A man accused of sexually abusing a baby allegedly murdered by his partner told police he never harmed the child, a court heard. John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, is accused of causing or allowing the death of Preston Davey, aged 13 months, along with child cruelty and a sexual assault. His 37-year-old partner Jamie Varley is accused of murdering the baby boy in July 2023 in Blackpool, and multiple offences of cruelty and child sexual abuse. Both men deny all charges at Preston Crown Court. Jurors at the court were shown the police video interview of McGowan-Fazakerley being asked to account for the child's injuries. He was asked a series of questions about bruises and abrasions to the baby's head, both arms, both legs, chest and back. McGowan-Fazakerley replied: "I've never caused any injuries to him ever, I've never hurt him, never done anything to him. "I've never seen anybody hurt him and I would never allow anybody to hurt him." He was then asked about injuries which the jury had been told were clinical signs of sexual abuse. McGowan-Fazakerley, who became emotional, told detectives: "No, no, no. No account for those injuries whatsoever. "I understand you have to ask these question