Content: In a trial that began in mid-September, Brandy Cooney and Becky Hamber face charges related to the death of a boy in their care. The couple has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder, confinement, assault with a weapon, and failing to provide the necessities of life to the boy's younger brother.

The court heard that a month before the boy's death, Cooney and Hamber exchanged text messages expressing concern about his well-being. They noted that he had fallen, appeared to be acting intoxicated, and had unfocused eyes. In one message dated November 20, 2022, Cooney texted her wife, "Unfortunately my thoughts [are] he is suddenly going to die and I'm going to jail." Hamber responded, "Well if it comes down to it I'll go to jail not u."

Sgt. Julie Powers, a Halton Regional Police officer involved in the investigation, testified that there is no evidence the couple sought medical treatment for the boy or called for help. The boy, referred to as L.L. to protect his identity, was 12 years old when he died on December 21, 2022. His younger brother, J.L., is now 13.

On the day of L.L.'s death, paramedics found him unresponsive and wet on the basement floor of his locked bedroom. Witnesses described him as severely malnourished, appearing much younger than his actual age. He died shortly after being taken to the hospital.

The prosecution argues that Cooney and Hamber abused and neglected the Indigenous children. The defense claims the couple did their best to care for the boys, who had significant behavioral issues, with limited support from the Children's Aid Society (CAS).

Powers has been presenting evidence collected from the couple's electronic devices, including text messages and audio recordings. Many texts were deleted on December 25, 2022, but police were able to recover them. The court has also reviewed over 50 images and videos, including footage from a surveillance system used to monitor the boys.

In their messages, Cooney and Hamber discussed various concerns about L.L.'s health, including a text where Cooney referred to L.L. as being "drunk" and falling over. Later, she expressed worry that he might need to go to the hospital. Hamber commented on the situation, saying, "No sleep, starving, dehydrated, and no poo...the perfect storm."

The couple reportedly became increasingly frustrated with the boys throughout 2022. They discussed using zip ties and other restraints to manage the boys' behavior, claiming it was necessary to prevent harm. In one exchange, Hamber expressed concern about a potential call from CAS after J.L. disclosed that he had been restrained at home.

The trial has revealed troubling text exchanges where Cooney and Hamber mentioned harming the boys. In one instance, Cooney texted, "I’m trying, I really just wanna murder," in reference to L.L. The trial is set to continue as the court examines further evidence and testimonies.