Jamie Varley, convicted of murdering 13-month-old Preston Davey, has been transferred to HMP Wakefield, a high-security prison known as 'Monster Mansion.' Varley, who is serving a life sentence, now occupies D Wing, an area that houses some of Britain's most depraved child killers, rapists, and sex offenders. This unit is described by prisoners as 'the super nonces wing' and is intended for vulnerable inmates at risk of self-harm or those most likely to be targeted. Varley, 37, has adopted the new name Harry Jae Robb in an attempt to conceal his identity amid fears of retribution.
Varley's new reality contrasts sharply with the affluent lifestyle he previously curated with his partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, who received a 25-year sentence for his role in the child's death. Varley was sentenced on June 18 for subjecting Preston to a campaign of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse over four months. The court heard that Varley tormented the infant for his own gratification.
Upon arrival at Wakefield in late June, Varley spent ten days in the prison's healthcare unit for his protection, a duration considered unusual. He informed prison officials of his desire to be known as Harry Jae Robb, a name change arranged through probation and prison authorities. This move is reportedly a response to threats and a perceived 'hit list' placed on him by those incensed by his crimes. Varley has previously shown signs of fear, appearing with bruises on a video link during a pre-trial hearing last October.
HMP Wakefield, established in 1594, houses approximately 630 prisoners, two-thirds of whom have been convicted of sex offenses. The prison has a history of violence, with a recent inspection noting a marked increase in assaults. The facility has implemented new measures, including segregating at-risk prisoners and altering exercise schedules to minimize contact between inmates deemed dangerous to each other.
D Wing's inmate population includes individuals such as Roy Whiting, the killer of Sarah Payne, and Mick Philpott, who caused the deaths of six children. Other notable inmates include serial rapist David Carrick and former police officer Dion Arnold. Some prisoners, like Steven Barker (Baby P's killer) and John Worboys (the Black Cab Rapist), have also changed their names while incarcerated. The wing has previously housed inmates like Harold Shipman and Ian Huntley, both of whom met violent ends or suffered assaults within prison.
Varley has reportedly struck up an unlikely friendship with another inmate, described as a "no-mark con he knows from Liverpool." However, sources indicate that other inmates have already approached Varley's cell, seeking to assess him. Prison officials have implemented enhanced security measures in D Wing, including protective netting and strict confinement regimes, to manage the volatile environment. Inmates spend most of their time locked in their cells, with limited opportunities for exercise and education, carefully managed to prevent inter-inmate conflict.