In a landmark development during the murder trial of a Burlington couple, a 13-year-old boy, identified as J.L. for privacy reasons, testified about the tragic death of his 12-year-old brother while the couple was in the process of adopting them. The Superior Court in Milton recently played a recording of an interview conducted by Halton regional police with J.L. in January 2023.
During the video, J.L., who was 10 at the time, disclosed that Brandy Cooney and Becky Hamber would restrain him during tantrums by using zip ties and a hockey helmet. Additionally, the boys were allegedly made to wear wetsuits and locked in their rooms at night under surveillance with security cameras. Cooney and Hamber have pleaded not guilty to murder, as well as charges related to confinement, assault with a weapon (zip ties), and failure to provide the necessaries of life to J.L.
J.L., referred to as a witness by the Crown, testified remotely from the courthouse with assistance from two workers and a support dog named Nelson. The prosecution asserts that the boys, who referred to the defendants as mom and mama, were subjected to abuse and neglect.
Paramedics discovered J.L.’s brother unresponsive, malnourished, and emaciated in a locked basement room, resembling a much younger child. The defense claims the couple did their best to care for the boys, who had complex needs and behavioral issues, with limited support from the Children’s Aid Society and other service providers.
Various professionals, including first responders, medical experts, and educators, have testified in the ongoing judge-alone trial, which is expected to continue until early December. J.L., in the video, appeared cordial and introspective, sharing details of his daily routine with the couple and the alleged mistreatment he endured, including being fed pureed food and confined in his room.
The prosecution presented another video interview with J.L. from September 2023, where he expressed feeling restricted and manipulated by Cooney and Hamber. The trial is set to resume Thursday with the remainder of the second video to be played.