WARNING: This story details allegations of child abuse.
For the first time, the horrific murder trial of a Burlington, Ont., couple is hearing from the brother of the 12-year-old who died while the women were in the process of adopting the boys.
J.L., as he’s referred to for our coverage of this trial as the boys’ identities are protected under a standard publication ban, is now 13. His brother, L.L., was 12 when he died on Dec. 21, 2022.
Brandy Cooney and Becky Hamber have pleaded not guilty to murder in the Superior Court trial in Milton that began in mid-September. They’ve entered the same plea related to charges of confinement, assault with a weapon — zip ties — and failing to provide the necessaries of life to J.L.
Called by the Crown, J.L. began testifying Wednesday by video from a separate room in the courthouse. Two workers and a support dog named Nelson are there to help him if needed.
The hearing began with the court being shown a video of an interview the boy gave a Halton police detective on Jan. 11, 2023.
The Crown argues Hamber and Cooney, who the boys called mom and mama, respectively, abused and neglected the children.
The trial has heard paramedics found L.L. unresponsive, soaking wet and lying on the basement floor of his bedroom, which was locked from the outside. Witnesses said he was so severely malnourished and emaciated that he looked as if he could be six years old, even though he was twice that age. He died shortly after in hospital.
The women’s respective lawyers argue the couple were doing their best to care for children with high needs and significant behavioural problems, with little help from the Children’s Aid Society (CAS) and service providers.
Witnesses including first responders, medical experts, teachers, therapists and doctors have testified at the judge-alone trial, which is expected to continue until at least early December.
If you’re affected by this report, you can look for mental health support through resources in your province or territory.
