Becky Hamber, one of two Ontario women accused in the death of a boy in their care, testified in Milton Superior Court for the first time, stating that she and her wife struggled to provide the necessary help for him. Hamber mentioned that they were unaware of the boy’s severe behavioral issues before he and his younger brother came to live with them. She described incidents where the older boy exhibited sudden violent behavior, and their attempts to seek assistance from the Children’s Aid Society were not always effective.
In her testimony, Hamber recounted an incident in 2018 when the boy, identified as L.L. for the trial, verbally abused her and physically pushed her down a flight of stairs, resulting in an injury to her leg. Following this, Cooney took the boy, who also expressed suicidal thoughts, to a nearby hospital for admission.
Dr. Alan Brown, a child psychiatrist, testified earlier that L.L. likely had several mental health disorders. The trial also revealed allegations that the couple mistreated the boys, using restraints, locking them in rooms, and restricting their food. Despite the challenges, Hamber and Cooney maintained their plea of not guilty to the charges.
During the trial, Hamber’s lawyer questioned her about the strategies provided to handle the boys’ behavior, to which she replied that they did not receive any. The defense also delved into the couple’s financial situation, with Hamber clarifying that their motivation was not money-driven. Hamber disclosed her challenging childhood and how it influenced her decision to care for children with special needs.
The trial continues with Hamber expected to resume her testimony on Tuesday. If you require mental health support, resources are available in various provinces and territories, including suicide crisis helplines and counseling services for children and families.