Two women in Ontario, Canada, have been found guilty of first-degree murder in the death of their 12-year-old foster son, L.L., after a prolonged period of abuse that left him emaciated and severely neglected. Becky Hamber, 46, and Brandy Cooney, 44, were also convicted of confinement, assault with a weapon, and failing to provide the necessaries of life in connection to the tragic death.
The Death of L.L.
On December 21, 2022, emergency responders arrived at the couple’s home in Milton to find L.L. unresponsive, soaking wet, and covered in vomit. Despite being 12 years old, he appeared to be the size of a 6-year-old due to severe malnutrition.
L.L. was later pronounced dead, with a pathologist suggesting that hypothermia or cardiac arrest caused by prolonged malnourishment might have been the cause of death, though the exact cause remained unclear.
The court heard that the two boys in the household, including L.L., were subjected to extreme abuse and confinement. L.L.’s younger brother, J.L., testified that they were often locked in their rooms for 18 hours a day. The boys were also reportedly forced to wear zip-tied wet suits, helmets, and were made to sleep in tents and eat only pureed food.
Disturbing messages between Hamber and Cooney revealed their deep resentment towards the boys, referring to L.L. as a “loser” and “idiot,” and expressing a desire for harm to come to them.
Judge’s Findings
Ontario Superior Court Justice Clayton Conlan condemned the abuse, stating that the evidence against Hamber and Cooney was “overwhelming.” He characterized their actions as filled with “loathe and hate” towards the children, particularly L.L., and noted that the confinement caused significant harm to both boys.
Conlan pointed out that there was no reasonable alternative to their actions, and locking the boys up like prisoners only compounded the damage.
The judge emphasized the contradictions and lack of common sense in the defendants’ defense, which claimed that the extreme methods, including the use of helmets and wet suits, were necessary to prevent bathroom accidents and self-harm. The defense argued that child aid workers and health professionals who visited the home were aware of the women’s methods but failed to raise concerns.
Sentencing and Next Steps
A sentencing date has not yet been set, but Hamber and Cooney face life imprisonment for their roles in the murder and ongoing abuse of their foster children. Their conviction marks the conclusion of a disturbing trial that exposed the extreme and prolonged mistreatment of vulnerable children.
L.L.’s death has sparked outrage, and while the legal process continues, the community and those who were aware of the abuse are left grappling with the horrific events that led to his tragic death.
