In the ongoing trial involving two women accused of the tragic death of a 12-year-old boy under their care, Ontario’s former child advocate has highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability within the Children’s Aid Society (CAS). Irwin Elman, who previously served as an independent watchdog, expressed skepticism about the likelihood of full disclosure from the CAS due to the inherent closed nature of the child protection system.
Brandy Cooney and Becky Hamber have pleaded not guilty to charges including first-degree murder, confinement, assault with zip ties, and failure to provide care for the boy’s younger brother. The trial, which commenced in mid-September at Milton Superior Court, resumed recently with Cooney concluding her testimony before the holiday break. Hamber is currently the final witness for the defense.
The case involves Indigenous brothers who were placed with Cooney and Hamber in Burlington under the supervision of Halton CAS, even though they remained wards of Ottawa CAS. Tragically, the older brother passed away under alarming circumstances, prompting concerns about the adequacy of the CAS’s oversight and intervention protocols.
Both Halton and Ottawa CAS have conducted internal reviews following the incident, submitting their findings to the Chief Coroner’s Office and undergoing external evaluations. While the specifics of the reviews and subsequent changes remain undisclosed, both agencies emphasized their commitment to enhancing child safety and well-being.
Despite the CAS not being directly implicated in the trial, testimonies have raised serious questions about the selection of adoptive parents, supervision practices, and response to warning signs. Elman criticized the apparent lapses in policies and judgments within the CAS, stressing the need for increased transparency to regain public trust and ensure meaningful reforms.
Regarding the possibility of a coroner’s inquest, it has been clarified that the boy’s death does not automatically trigger such proceedings but may be pursued at the family’s request. The Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services recently conducted an audit of CAS agencies, focusing on financial management rather than systemic improvements, as urged by advocates like Elman.
In response to the ongoing trial and public scrutiny, the CAS agencies have acknowledged the necessity for improved collaboration and coordination among service providers involved in child welfare. While constrained by legal constraints, Ottawa CAS reiterated its commitment to learning from the tragedy and implementing impactful changes to prioritize child safety and well-being.