Home / Crime and Justice / Couple Accused of Starving 12-Year-Old Boy to Death in Their Care
Couple Accused of Starving 12-Year-Old Boy to Death in Their Care
11 Nov
Summary
- CAS workers failed to investigate red flags about the boys' condition
- 12-year-old boy found severely malnourished, died shortly after
- Couple pleaded not guilty to murder, confinement, and failing to provide necessities
In a tragic case unfolding in Ontario, a Halton couple is on trial for the murder of a 12-year-old boy in their care. According to the court proceedings, Halton Children's Aid Society (CAS) workers failed to properly document and investigate concerning red flags about the condition of the two boys.
The defense lawyer argued that CAS workers did not follow up on clear signs of neglect, such as one boy being described as "unhealthy" and having an eating disorder. Paramedics found the 12-year-old, referred to as L.L., unresponsive, severely malnourished, and emaciated in the basement of the couple's home in December 2022. He died shortly after in the hospital.
The couple, Becky Hamber and Brandy Cooney, have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge, as well as charges of confinement, assault with a weapon, and failing to provide the necessities of life to the younger boy, J.L. Their lawyers claim the women were doing their best to care for children with significant behavioral issues, but received little support from CAS and other service providers.
The trial, which began in mid-September, has heard testimony from a range of witnesses, including first responders, medical experts, teachers, and therapists. The proceedings are expected to continue until at least early December as the court examines the complex and tragic circumstances surrounding L.L.'s death.
