Woman Raises Funds For Christopher Leonard

Christopher Leonard is out of the hospital and testified at a preliminary hearing on Wednesday against his half-sister Sarah Ferguson in connection with an alleged beating inside the Word of Life Church in Chadwicks that resulted in his hospitalization, along with the death of his older brother, Lucas.

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The 17-year-old, whose own parents are charged with manslaughter in the death of his brother, has had his life turned upside and is in the care of Oneida County Child Protective Services. WIBX has learned of possible fundraising campaigns to raise money that would assist Christopher in rebuilding his life. One such cause has being spearheaded by Stacey Wendell and her friend Rachelle Rustica.

NOTE: As indicated in the video below, exactly how the funds will be used is still being determined. This post is not endorsing nor calling into question the legitimacy of this particular fundraising effort.

Wendell, who lives in the Chadwicks area, spoke with WIBX on Wednesday saying she's selling ribbons and bracelets to raise money. Wendell is also involved in the effort to have the church shut down, and this week's vigil to remember Lucas Leonard .