Relatives charged with criminal negligence causing death of child in Brantford

Brantford police have charged two people with criminal negligence causing death after a young child died.

Police have offered very few details about the case, including not releasing the names, genders or ages of either accused or victim.

The investigation began Feb. 12 following the death of a young child" inside a Brantford residence.

Brantford's major crime unit and forensic identifications services were called to investigate. The coroner's office and Centre of Forensic Sciences assisted in determining cause of death.

Police said two relatives of the child have been charged.

Brantford police said no further details are being released at this time, citing a publication ban and the sensitive nature of the case.

When asked to clarify the publication ban police confirmed it is a standard ban under section 517 of the Criminal Code.

Such bans prohibit publishing the evidence taken, the information given or the representations made and the reasons, if any, given or to be given by the justice" until after the conclusion of the case.

This routine publication ban generally does not prohibit naming the accused. The Spectator is attempting to clarify the publication ban in court.

Nicole O'Reilly is a Hamilton-based reporter covering crime and justice for The Spectator. Reach her via email: noreilly@thespec.com