A court in Milton, Ontario, has heard that the Halton Children’s Aid Society (CAS) failed to interview a boy alone despite receiving numerous reports of suspected abuse during the five years he lived with potential adoptive parents. Lisa Potts, a retired CAS child protection worker, testified that even after a CAS worker expressed concerns about the boy’s physical condition during a virtual call in September 2022, no follow-up visit took place before his death in December of that year.
Paramedics found the 12-year-old unresponsive, soaked, and emaciated in a locked basement bedroom on the night of his death. The boy, who appeared significantly malnourished, passed away shortly after being taken to the hospital.
Becky Hamber and Brandy Cooney, the prospective adoptive parents, have pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder. The trial, which began in September and is expected to continue until December, revealed that the boy, identified as L.L., and his younger brother, known as J.L., were subjected to abuse and neglect.
Potts confirmed that the boys were mistreated by Hamber and Cooney, who also face charges of confinement, assault with a weapon, and failure to provide the necessities of life to J.L. The defense argued that the women received little support from CAS and service providers due to the boys’ challenging behaviors.
Justice Clayton Conlan expressed his dismay at the women’s refusal to acknowledge the boys’ Indigenous heritage, deeming it offensive. Reports from concerned professionals over the years about the treatment of the boys were received by CAS, but no unannounced home visits were conducted despite protocol.
The women made unsubstantiated claims about the boys’ behavior, alleging severe issues without providing evidence. The court learned that the boys’ isolation increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, and they were withdrawn from external interactions.
Despite a push from CAS for medical check-ups, the women resisted, citing health concerns. Records showed instances of emotional distress and neglect suffered by L.L., who expressed sadness and longing for parental attention during virtual meetings.
Potts highlighted the failure of CAS to follow up on concerns raised about L.L.’s well-being before his tragic death. The trial is ongoing, with Potts yet to undergo cross-examination.
