The trial involving two women from Burlington, Ont., accused in the death of a 12-year-old boy under their care has had testimonies from various professionals involved in the mental health treatment of the child and his younger sibling.
A social worker, therapist, psychiatrist, and service coordinator shared that Brandy Cooney and Becky Hamber expressed difficulties in caring for the boys, whom they believed had faced trauma, and sought additional support. Concerns about the children’s care were noted, including incidents labeled as “yellow flags.”
The older boy, referred to as L.L. in court, passed away in December 2022. The identities of L.L. and his younger brother, J.L., are protected by a publication ban.
During the trial, the prosecution argued that Cooney and Hamber mistreated the boys, accusing them of locking the children in their rooms, limiting their food intake, and using zip ties to control them. The defendants, who were in the process of adopting the Indigenous brothers, pleaded not guilty to charges including first-degree murder, confinement, assault with a weapon (zip ties), and failure to provide necessary care to J.L.
The trial, presided over by Justice Clayton Conlan in Milton, began recently and is expected to continue until December. Testimonies have highlighted instances where the accused allegedly mistreated the boys, leading to the tragic death of L.L.
The defense team representing Cooney and Hamber contended that the women were trying their best but struggled to manage L.L.’s challenging behavior, which included binge eating, manipulation, and violent outbursts. The defense also suggested that the boys had experienced significant trauma before being under the care of the defendants.
Various professionals involved in the case testified that they believed Cooney and Hamber were actively seeking support and assistance for the boys. A psychiatrist mentioned that L.L. likely had multiple disorders, including disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, PTSD, reactive attachment disorder, and ADHD.
The professionals’ testimonies shed light on the complex dynamics within the family and the challenges faced by all parties involved in the care of the children. The trial continues to uncover details surrounding the tragic events leading to L.L.’s untimely death.