Halton Children’s Aid Society (CAS) workers are under scrutiny for allegedly neglecting to document crucial information and overlooking warning signs regarding the well-being of two boys in the care of a Burlington, Ontario couple, as highlighted during the women’s murder trial. Defense counsel Nabeel Sheiban questioned former child protection worker Lisa Potts regarding adoption workers’ notes and communication with Becky Hamber and Brandy Cooney. Hamber expressed concerns about the older boy’s health and eating disorder, which Sheiban emphasized should have raised red flags, a sentiment echoed by Potts.
Tragically, the 12-year-old boy, identified as L.L. for trial coverage purposes, passed away on December 21, 2022. Paramedics discovered him unresponsive, wet, and emaciated in a locked basement bedroom, resembling a much younger child. Despite efforts to save him, he succumbed shortly after being hospitalized. Hamber and Cooney have denied charges of murder, confinement, assault with a weapon, and neglecting the necessities of life for the younger boy, J.L., whose identities remain protected.
The prosecution contends that the accused mistreated and neglected the children, leading to L.L.’s death, while the defense argues that the women did their best to care for children with complex needs and challenging behaviors, with limited support from CAS and service providers. Various witnesses, including first responders, medical professionals, educators, therapists, and physicians, have testified in the trial proceedings, which commenced in mid-September.
In testimony, Potts highlighted deficiencies in CAS practices, revealing lapses in required physical examinations and missed opportunities for private interactions with the children despite abuse suspicions. The absence of surprise CAS visits and inadequate documentation were also scrutinized. The trial further explored the feeding regimen for the boys, with allegations of feeding challenges and recommendations by an attachment therapist. The proceedings also included testimony from Matthew Bursey of the Reach Out Centre for Kids regarding services provided to L.L. and J.L.
The trial is ongoing and is expected to continue into early December. If you require mental health support following this news, resources are available in your province or territory.
[Source](https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/cooney-hamber-trial-milton-9.6973777)