Letters about ex-representative Chris Collins from family, friends, and colleges have been pouring into Judge Vernon Broderick's mailbox.

Collins, who will be sentenced on Friday, January 17, was accused of illegally leaking confidential information about a bio-pharmaceutical company to his son, Cameron. This resulted in the pair getting pinned with felony charges.

The father of his son's fiancé, Stephen Zarsky, was also involved. All three have pleaded guilty.

In a letter to the judge, Mary Collins, the former congressman's wife, said:

“It has impacted all of us to an extent that is hard for others to fathom. As a mother and wife, I find myself reduced often to uncontrollable tears.”

In another letter, Collins’ daughter, Caitlin Collins, noted she was diagnosed in December 2018 that left her in a wheelchair. Information in the letter has been redacted, but Collins said her dad has supported her the whole time.

Others who wrote in support included Michael Caputo, who referenced when Caputo directed David Bellavia's 2012 primary challenge against Collins and beyond.

“I came to regard him as forgiving, uniquely service-oriented, constituent-focused, and eager to help. In today's visceral political climate, another person would leave our family without assistance. He did precisely the opposite, time after time," said Caputo. 

And even Former House Speaker John Boehner:

“I know Chris as a family man who has a passion for his country, his wife, his children and grandchildren. We served together in Congress during challenging times for our country….

He is a person of loyalty, and courage.”

In many of the letters, Collins’ close work with Boy Scouts of America and the love of his family was repeated. To these supporters, he was a man who showed generosity and stood up for what was right, but is now remorseful and taking full responsibility for a grave mistake.