Parents charged with fatally beating son in New York church

The New Hartford Police Department say 65-year-old Bruce Leonard and 59-year-old Deborah Leonard of Clayville are charged with first-degree manslaughter in the death of their son Lucas. Police say shortly after arriving the male was pronounced deceased.



In conducting their investigation, New Hartford Police interviewed several members of the Word of Life Church, located on 3354 Oneida Street in New Hartford/Chadwicks. At the arraignment, it was revealed that both teens suffered injuries to their abdomens, genitals, backs and thighs. Bail is set for $100,000.

All six of those charged in Leonard’s death have plead not guilty. Police said that more arrests were expected. The Leonards’ residence was being investigated as a secondary crime scene.

Joseph Irwin, David Morey, Linda Morey and Sarah Ferguson also appeared in court, charged with the assault of a 17-year-old male. Bail was set at $50,000 each.

All six who appeared in court are scheduled to appear in court again on Friday.

Deborah Leonard’s lawyer, Devin Garramone, declined to comment. Information on whether they have lawyers wasn’t immediately available.

Parents charged with fatally beating son in New York church

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