WARNING: This story references details of child abuse.
A sentencing hearing starts today in Milton for a couple from Ontario who were found guilty of murdering a 12-year-old boy and abusing his younger brother while they were under their care for several years.
Superior Court Justice Clayton Conlan previously scheduled the hearing for Brandy Cooney, 45, and Becky Hamber, 47, at 10 a. m. ET. Follow live updates here.
The women had pleaded not guilty during the trial that began in September.
Conlan also determined that Hamber and Cooney were guilty of failing to provide necessary care for another child they intended to adopt.
LISTEN | Breaking down the verdict:
Ottawa Morning9:47Guilty verdict in Milton trial on death of Ottawa boy
CBC’s Justin Chandler has been reporting on the trial involving the Burlington couple and explains the verdict.
CBC has referred to the Indigenous brothers from Ottawa using initials, L. L. and J. L., as their identities are protected by a standard publication ban.
In his May decisions, Conlan stated that Cooney and Hamber “hated the boys.” The couple “deeply resented them having come into their lives and not having turned out to be what was expected.”
He noted that they kept L. L. confined in a “dungeon-like bedroom” as he deteriorated and ultimately died in December 2022, showing a clear intent to kill him.
“He should be remembered for more than this,” the judge wrote.
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Justice Clayton Conlan listens to closing arguments in the trial of Brandy Cooney and Becky Hamber on March 23. (Pam Davies/CBC)
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Court may hear victim impact statements
Ahead of the sentencing hearing, victim impact statements may be presented in court. These are typically brief writings from victims or their loved ones about how crimes have impacted their lives. It’s uncertain who might speak during Friday’s session, if anyone does. A first-degree murder conviction leads to an automatic life sentence without parole eligibility for 25 years. The brothers lived with Hamber and Cooney as their prospective adoptive parents for around five years beginning in 2017. A few days after L. L.’s death, Children’s Aid Society took J. L. away from the couple. On January 17, 2023, Halton police arrested both women on assault charges. They were later charged with L. L.’s murder on February 29, 2024. The trial was presided over by a judge alone and included testimonies from 48 witnesses along with 209 exhibits entered into evidence, as noted by Conlan in his findings.Texts important in judge’s decisions
Conlan wrote that he based much of his decision on text messages exchanged between Cooney, Hamber, and Cooney’s father (who lived with them), along with J. L.’s testimony, accounts from medical professionals who treated L. L., post-mortem findings as well as opinions from two expert witnesses, plus testimony given by Hamber and Cooney themselves.In a May statement regarding Conlan’s decisions, L. L.’s biological mother expressed gratitude towards Conlan, court staff members, along with both Crown prosecutors and defense attorneys for their efforts throughout the case.
“Justice has been rendered and the trial is over. But for our family this [is] our life. And the horrific nightmare that began long ago will forever now be etched in memories,” she said. “This verdict does not bring our child back to us but it does help us move forward.” CBC Hamilton received her statement through her lawyer involved in her family’s separate civil case; therefore her name won’t be disclosed due to publication restrictions concerning her sons’ identities. If you’re affected by this report you can look for mental health support through resources available within your province or territory. If you’re facing immediate danger or feel unsafe yourself or regarding others nearby please call 911.Source link
