Defence Accuses CAS Negligence in Child Abuse Trial.

WARNING: This article contains allegations of child abuse.

During the murder trial of two women from Burlington, Ontario, a defence attorney accused Halton Children’s Aid Society (CAS) workers of neglecting to document crucial details and overlooking warning signs regarding the well-being of two boys in the couple’s care.

At the trial, Nabeel Sheiban cross-examined retired child protection worker Lisa Potts, questioning her about notes made by adoption workers and their communications with Becky Hamber and Brandy Cooney.

Sheiban highlighted a message from Hamber describing the older boy as “unhealthy” and suffering from an eating disorder, indicating a potential red flag that was not acted upon.

Sheiban emphasized that the boy appeared underweight and unhealthy, arguing that this should have raised concerns.

Potts agreed, acknowledging the oversight.

Emaciated 12-Year-Old Boy Discovered

The child, identified as L.L. in court proceedings, passed away on December 21, 2022.

Paramedics found the 12-year-old unresponsive, drenched, and lying in a locked basement bedroom, appearing severely malnourished and emaciated to the point of resembling a much younger child. He succumbed to his condition shortly after being taken to the hospital.

Hamber and Cooney have entered not guilty pleas to charges of murder, confinement, assault, and failure to provide care to the younger boy, J.L.

The identities of the Indigenous boys are protected by a publication ban.

The prosecution alleges that the couple mistreated and neglected the children, leading to the tragic death of L.L.

On the other hand, the defence argues that the women were struggling to care for children with complex needs and challenging behaviors, with minimal support from CAS and other service providers.

Throughout the trial, various witnesses, including first responders, medical professionals, educators, therapists, and physicians, have provided testimony since the proceedings commenced in mid-September.

Retired Worker Criticizes CAS Practices

During a session on October 31, Potts, who had reviewed CAS files related to L.L. and J.L., faced questioning from the Crown. It was revealed that despite mandatory physical check-ups, Hamber and Cooney did not take L.L. to a doctor between January 2018 and December 2021. Additionally, CAS personnel never held private discussions with L.L. despite receiving reports of suspected abuse.

In a subsequent cross-examination, Cooney’s lawyer inquired about the importance of private visits at CAS. Potts acknowledged their significance but conceded that it was apparent that either Hamber or Cooney was always present during meetings.

Potts mentioned that CAS workers did not document the reasons for the lack of private interactions.