July 9, 2008 Hundreds gather for funeral of Brooke Bennett Play video

(NECN/WCAX: Randolph, Vermont) - Friends and family gathered today to say their last goodbyes to the 12-year-old Vermont girl who gained national attention when she disappeared and was later found dead.

Hundreds of mourners attended Brooke Bennett's funeral, which began at 11 a.m. Her body was found in a shallow grave a week after she was reported missing on June 25th. Police ruled her death a homicide.

A wake was held for Brooke Tuesday (7/8) and nearly 600 people showed to share their grief with her mother and family.

While Brooke's uncle, Michael Jacques, has not been charged in his niece's death, he remains in police custody on a federal kidnapping charge in another case.

According to authorities, Jacques had plans to recruit Brooke into a sex ring when she disappeared after being seen at his home.

Raymond Gagnon, her former stepfather, was charged with obstruction of justice and with possessing child pornography.

Both have federal court appearances next week.

The funeral was held at the high school were Brooke had just finished seventh grade.

*Video provided by WCAX*