A tragic and horrifying case has emerged as a Canadian couple, Becky Hamber and Brandy Cooney, are currently facing charges of first-degree murder in connection with the death of their 12-year-old adopted son. The young boy was found to weigh a mere 48 lbs at the time of his passing in 2024. The prosecution alleges that the couple subjected the boy and his younger brother to appalling conditions, including being locked in their rooms for 18 hours a day.
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During the trial proceedings, Cooney testified about the treatment of the two boys, revealing disturbing details of their confinement and mistreatment. Prosecutors contend that the boys would only be allowed to leave their rooms briefly during the night to use the bathroom, a task that required assistance due to restrictive measures enforced by the mothers. The boys were reportedly made to wear zip-tied wetsuits and helmets to prevent them from removing them.
Furthermore, it was revealed that the boys were subjected to physical exercises as a form of punishment while being monitored through video cameras in their rooms. Testimony included accounts of the boys being forced to do burpees, walk laps, or sit against a wall during their confinement periods. The surviving brother testified about the harrowing experience of watching his sibling deteriorate from severe malnutrition before his untimely death. The victim’s weight at the time of passing was shockingly lower than when he was six years old, according to expert testimony.
Cooney attempted to justify their actions by claiming they were trying to prevent self-harm from the boys, citing numerous alleged injuries inflicted on the couple over the years. She described instances of physical violence towards them, including an incident where Hamber reportedly suffered a fractured arm. However, the prosecution cast doubt on the validity of these claims by pointing out the lack of medical records supporting the alleged injuries sustained by Hamber.
The courtroom revelations painted a stark contrast to the facade of a normal family life portrayed by the couple on social media, where images of gourmet meals were shared while the reality for the boys was described as eating pureed foods. The defense’s attempt to present the mothers as loving but overwhelmed parents faced significant challenges when confronted with the evidence of the horrific conditions the boys were subjected to leading up to the tragic demise of the 12-year-old victim.
As the trial continues, the devastating impact of this case reverberates through the courtroom, highlighting the importance of safeguarding the welfare of vulnerable children. The pursuit of justice for the young victim and his surviving brother serves as a stark reminder of the responsibility society holds in protecting those who are most in need of care and support. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of neglect and abuse within a family setting, shedding light on the importance of early intervention and protection of children’s rights.