Leland Barnett

It is with absolute sorrow that my siblings and Mother begin the journey of fundraising for my 28 year old brother. Leland passed away July 6th at approximately 5am. He died in police custody after a physical altercation with his partner. He sustained brain trauma and other injuries that are unknown and pending autopsy results. We have hired an attorney to assist in fighting for a proper conviction on the case. We have also requested all footage from inside the holding cell that he was left in. His physical body is about 8 hours from home and we need to have a transport and burial. We also will need some assistance with attorneys fees.

Leland was a bright and positive light in the world. He suffered severe trauma from the community he lived in after disclosing he was gay. He fought every day for his life and no one should have to suffer that way. While he made his share of mistakes, he was still our boy and loved so dearly. He loved everyone he met and treated others with respect and dignity. His laugh could melt you and his love for family, friends, etc ran so deep. He just cared so much for others.

If you have any questions, please let me know so I can address them. My mother is disabled from a critical injury last year and was just released from an 8 month stay in the hospital. She is heartbroken that she cannot pay for these things, but we hope that with our own funds and any help available, we can provide a small and proper burial for Leland. We will not stop the fight against this injustice nor will we remain silent for others hurting.

With Love, we thank you from all sides of his family!