A 12-year-old boy, named L.L. to protect his identity, visited his family doctor for a routine checkup eight days before his tragic death while under the care of two women in Burlington, Ontario. Dr. Graeme (Stephen) Duncan testified in court regarding Becky Hamber and Brandy Cooney, who are facing charges of first-degree murder in connection to the boy they were attempting to adopt.
During the appointment on December 13, 2022, L.L. had exhibited significant weight loss, having shed approximately 10 pounds within a year, weighing less than he did at the age of six, and showing no signs of growth. Despite appearing verbally responsive and polite, the physical examination revealed alarming weight loss as the most notable concern.
Dr. Duncan, who has a practice in Halton region with 2,200 patients, disclosed that Hamber and Cooney had asserted that L.L. suffered from an eating disorder and vomited daily. Duncan had initiated a referral to an eating disorder clinic following previous scans and tests, indicating potential risks associated with L.L.’s health.
It was revealed during cross-examination that L.L. was at risk of a sudden cardiac event due to severe malnutrition and could have faced a fatal outcome at any moment, as expressed by Monte McGregor, the lawyer representing Hamber. The boy had reportedly regressed in size since his previous visit with Duncan a year earlier.
In court, it was disclosed that Dr. Duncan did not adhere to the guidelines outlined by the Canadian Paediatric Society during the checkup, failing to inquire about L.L.’s eating habits, conduct a thorough physical examination, or measure his blood pressure in different positions to assess the impact of malnutrition accurately.
Tragically, on December 21, 2022, L.L. was discovered in a severely emaciated and unresponsive state in the basement of Hamber and Cooney’s residence. Despite immediate hospitalization, he succumbed shortly after arrival. The exact cause of L.L.’s death remains undetermined, with possibilities of hypothermia or cardiac arrest linked to severe malnourishment.
Hamber and Cooney, who had also been in the process of adopting L.L.’s younger brother, J.L., were accused of confinement, assault with a weapon – notably zip ties, and neglecting to provide necessary care to J.L. Both boys were under the supervision of the Children’s Aid Society (CAS) of Ottawa, with the adoption process left incomplete following L.L.’s tragic passing.
The trial has shed light on concerns raised by medical professionals and clinic staff regarding the adoption of the boys by Cooney and Hamber, emphasizing issues with their parenting methods and the home environment provided. Despite multiple alerts from various sources, including teachers and therapists, the boys remained in the care of the accused individuals.
The prosecution has alleged that Hamber and Cooney not only struggled to care for the boys but also mistreated and neglected them, while relying on financial assistance from adoption programs. Witnesses have provided contrasting descriptions of L.L.’s behavior, with some highlighting positive attributes despite occasional challenges.
The defense has argued that L.L. had complex behavioral issues, including ADHD and attachment problems, implying that the couple faced difficulties in managing his needs without adequate support. The trial, presided over by Justice Clayton Conlan, is ongoing and is expected to continue into December.