A coroner is considering resuming an inquest into the death of Preston Davey, who died following months of sexual and physical abuse by his adoptive parents. The coroner, identified as Wilson, stated during a hearing that there are "sufficient reason to resume" and "acts and omissions of public authorities that need to be scrutinised in a public hearing." This scrutiny is particularly relevant as Preston had contact with various professionals, including medical staff, social workers, and welfare officers, on at least three occasions prior to his death.
The inquest was initially opened shortly after Preston's death but was suspended to allow for a police investigation and the subsequent trial of his adoptive parents. With the criminal proceedings concluded, the coroner must now decide whether to continue the inquest. He noted that "relevant issues" had already been addressed during the eight-week criminal trial but felt a public hearing was necessary.
A review by the Oldham Safeguarding Children's Partnership into Preston's death has also resumed after being suspended for the criminal trial. This review is not expected to be completed until January 2027, meaning the inquest cannot take place before then. The hearing also addressed the matter of legal representation for various public bodies and individuals at any future inquest, including Preston's biological mother and grandmother, Sara and Debbie Davey, who were represented by lawyers.
Preston was born while his mother was in custody, and her request for a place in a mother and baby unit in prison was refused. He was subsequently removed from her care by court order and placed with temporary adoptive parents before being adopted by Jamie Varley and McGowan. The court heard that Preston died at Blackpool Victoria Hospital. The coroner acknowledged calls for a public inquiry but stated his role was limited to determining whether an inquest should proceed. It is anticipated that the inquest, if held, will be a "wide-ranging inquiry."