In a murder trial in Milton, a psychiatrist testified that she had repeatedly advised a couple in Burlington, Ont., to take a 12-year-old boy under their care to the emergency room as his health deteriorated. Despite her recommendations, the boy, identified as L.L., tragically passed away in 2022.
Dr. Shelinderjit Dhaliwal, who had been treating L.L., stated that taking him to the emergency department could have prevented the boy’s death. The accused, Brandy Cooney and Becky Hamber, face charges of first-degree murder and other related offenses in connection with the incident.
The trial revealed that L.L. and his younger brother, J.L., were under the care of the Children’s Aid Society (CAS) of Ottawa before being moved to Burlington to live with Cooney and Hamber, who were attempting to adopt them. Testimonies from medical professionals highlighted concerns about L.L.’s deteriorating health and eating habits leading up to his tragic demise.
Dhaliwal recounted her interactions with L.L., detailing his struggles with expressing emotions and his reported behavioral issues. She emphasized that she repeatedly urged the accused to seek immediate medical assistance for the boy, as his condition worsened over time. Despite her efforts to facilitate his access to specialized care, L.L. tragically passed away shortly after being found unresponsive in his basement bedroom.
The trial also heard that efforts were made to enroll L.L. in an eating disorder clinic, but delays in medical intervention may have contributed to the tragic outcome. Dhaliwal expressed regret over the lack of immediate action taken to address L.L.’s declining health, emphasizing the importance of prompt medical attention in such cases.
As the trial continues, the court aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding L.L.’s untimely death and the responsibilities of the individuals involved in his care. The heartbreaking case serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for timely and appropriate medical intervention in cases of child welfare and health concerns.
