Trial of Burlington mothers accused of murder hears horrific details of restraining tactics

Two mothers on trial for first-degree murder and other charges were back in a Milton court room Wednesday.

Brandy Cooney and Becky Hamber have pleaded not guilty in connection with the December 2022 death of a 12-year-old boy who they were planning to adopt.

Harrowing details of a “restraint system” were presented, which includes zip-ties, wetsuits and bedroom confinement used against two boys under the care of the two prospective, adoptive parents at their Burlington home.

During the judge-only trial Wednesday, Cooney was under cross examination, arguing against the Crown over the nature of care she and Hamber provided to the boys.

Cooney pushed back against claims of abuse, saying the boys showed aggressive and violent behaviour.

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The Crown combed through police investigations, which included text messages showing vulgar language against the children.

It included numerous insults like the word “moron” and “loser,” read out by Crown Attorney Monica Mackenzie.

Meanwhile, Cooney took aim at the Children’s Aid Society for not providing enough help.

She also accused them of deceiving the prospective mothers about the boy’s time with their previous foster family.

Cooney testified that the boys alleged abuse included sexual abuse at their previous home, but the Crown argued that there was no evidence to prove that.

At one point during cross examination, Cooney told the court the children did not speak highly of their former foster family.

A publication ban is in effect to protect the identity of the deceased and his brother.

The trial resumes on Thursday.

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