In a Burlington, Ontario murder trial, the brother of a 12-year-old victim, identified as J.L., testified for the first time about the abuse he and his sibling endured while under the care of a couple seeking to adopt them. J.L., now 13, revealed to the court how Brandy Cooney and Becky Hamber restrained him during tantrums using zip ties and a hockey helmet, made him wear wetsuits, and monitored him with security cameras. The couple faces charges of murder, confinement, assault with a weapon, and neglecting the boys’ basic needs.

Described as “mom” and “mama” by the Indigenous boys, Cooney and Hamber allegedly subjected the children to abuse and neglect. Witnesses shared harrowing details of finding the 12-year-old victim malnourished and emaciated, resembling a much younger child. The defense contends that the couple struggled to care for the boys due to their challenging behavior and lack of adequate support from authorities.

Testifying via video, J.L. disclosed the strict routines enforced by the defendants, including physical restraints during outbursts and being fed pureed food as a consequence of tantrums. He also mentioned being confined, wearing wetsuits, and sleeping in a tent tied to his bed. The use of security cameras to monitor their every move further illustrated the oppressive environment the boys lived in.

During the trial, J.L. affirmed the accuracy of his statements about the couple’s treatment, revealing that they disguised the harsh reality from authorities during visits. The Crown is expected to present more evidence from J.L.’s interviews to shed further light on the extent of the abuse inflicted by Cooney and Hamber.