A harrowing case of child abuse unfolded in a Calgary courtroom Monday as Justice Ken McLeod considers sentencing for Matthew Jason Scott, 41, who pleaded guilty last spring to aggravated assault, forcible confinement, and failing to provide the necessaries of life. The case centers around the abuse of an eight-year-ancient boy, referred to as “Cole” by CBC News due to a publication ban protecting the identities of the children involved.
Horrific Abuse Detailed in Court
Court heard that while Scott pleaded guilty, the majority of the abuse was perpetrated by Stephanie Alisha Baker, Cole’s stepmother. However, Scott was aware of, witnessed, and sometimes participated in the assaults, starvation, and neglect. The abuse spanned several years, occurring daily and lasting “most of the day” in the year leading up to Cole’s hospitalization.
The situation came to light in September 2023 when Baker and Scott brought Cole to the Alberta Children’s Hospital citing mental health and behaviour concerns. Doctors and nurses quickly discovered Cole was “severely emaciated” and had two black eyes.
Brutal Conditions and Control
The abuse included starvation, with Cole “beg[ging] and cry[ing] for food constantly,” according to statements from his siblings. Punishment for eating without permission involved pouring boiling water on his head and smashing his head against a wall. Cole was often confined with zip ties and duct tape, sometimes with his mouth taped shut, and forced to sleep on the floor, outside on a deck, or locked outside in the cold without appropriate clothing.
Baker and Scott monitored Cole with cameras placed inside and outside the home. Neighbours noticed Cole’s condition and attempted to help, providing snacks he would eat while hiding from the cameras. One neighbour described Cole as looking “like a whipped dog.” Despite concerns raised with police and child and family services in May 2023, Cole was not removed from the home until his hospitalization four months later.
Siblings Witnessed and Suffered
Cole’s teenage siblings similarly endured abuse and provided crucial information to police. One sibling expressed a desire for police to remove them from the home, stating she didn’t “ever feel safe going home.” They reported witnessing Cole’s abuse and attempting to intervene, but fearing repercussions, they ultimately stopped. They also described a restrictive eating schedule where they were only fed dinner late at night after completing chores.
Sentencing and Recovery
At Monday’s hearing, prosecutor Zailin Lakhoo proposed a 15-year prison sentence for Scott, while defence lawyer Sean Leochko is expected to argue for a five-year term at the next court date. Baker, who faces the same charges, has twice attempted to plead guilty but withdrew her plea at the last moment, and her case remains before the courts. Cole is now living in a supportive environment, but caregivers report he struggles with low self-worth and requires constant reassurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges did Matthew Jason Scott plead guilty to?
Matthew Jason Scott pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, forcible confinement, and failing to provide the necessaries of life.
What was the extent of Cole’s physical condition when he arrived at the hospital?
When Cole arrived at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, he was severely emaciated, weighed 36 pounds, and suffered burns to his head and face.
Are Cole’s siblings also receiving support?
Two of Cole’s teenage siblings attended the sentencing hearing and also suffered abuse in the Scott and Baker home. They assisted police during the investigation.
How can communities better protect vulnerable children from abuse and neglect?