Concerns have recently been raised regarding Brandon serving as President and his fiancée, Katie, serving as Treasurer of Deaf Truckers United (DTU). Some have suggested that this arrangement constitutes a “conflict of interest.” We wish to make it absolutely clear: this is not a conflict of interest.

History itself demonstrates this precedent. Duke previously served as Vice President and later as President of DTU, while his wife, Suzie, served as Secretary. Both have been active members of DTU since 2012. At no point during their years of service did anyone raise objections or allege that their partnership created a conflict. If their leadership together was never considered inappropriate, it is inconsistent and unfair to now question Brandon and Katie on the same grounds.

The reality is that the true measure of leadership is not defined by personal relationships, but by integrity, accountability, and responsible service. During Duke’s presidency, Ashley Jones and Eduwin Pineiro each served as Treasurers at different times. Unfortunately, during those periods, funds belonging to DTU were withheld and not returned to the organization. This was a direct breach of trust and fiduciary responsibility. Importantly, neither Ashley nor Eduwin had any personal or familial relationship with Duke, yet mismanagement and misappropriation still occurred. Their actions resulted from personal choices, not relationships.

By contrast, Brandon and Katie have demonstrated transparency, responsibility, and dedication. There is no evidence of misconduct, no record of missing funds, and no breach of trust. To suggest that their relationship alone constitutes a conflict of interest is misleading and unfounded. Integrity must be judged by actions and results, not by assumptions or speculation.

Brandon and Katie continue to serve DTU with faithfulness and commitment. Their contributions should be respected rather than questioned. Leadership should be evaluated by accountability, responsibility, and proven integrity, not by unsubstantiated claims intended to discredit or divide.

A Message to Eduwin, Ashley, Kerri, Jim, Allen, Barry, and Ryan

It has come to our attention that certain funds belonging to Deaf Truckers United remain in the possession of Eduwin, the most recent treasurer, and Ashley, the treasurer prior to Eduwin, who also advised Eduwin on the proper procedure and instructed him to hold the funds, as she is likely the one responsible for managing them. This matter is of the utmost seriousness, and we strongly urge that it be resolved without further delay.

For the record, a police report has already been filed regarding the missing funds. DTU will no longer continue making repeated requests for the return of money that rightfully belongs to the organization. The responsibility to correct this situation now lies entirely with you.

Eduwin, Ashley, Kerri, Jim, Allen, Barry, and Ryan: whether or not you are CDL holders, you fully understand the importance of honesty and trustworthiness in this industry. By withholding funds, you have made yourselves complicit in the misappropriation of nonprofit assets. Misuse of nonprofit funds is not a minor matter, it carries the possibility of criminal charges, including felony charges, which could permanently damage reputations and careers. The only responsible course of action is the immediate return of all DTU funds.

Ashley, as the founder of a new organization you are planning, credibility and integrity are indispensable. Retaining funds that rightfully belong to DTU undermines both your personal reputation and the legitimacy of your leadership. If you wish your new organization to stand on a foundation of honesty and trust, this matter must be resolved promptly. Otherwise, the shadow of this unresolved issue will continue to follow and weaken your efforts.

The facts are undeniable: DTU’s funds were withheld for months, and despite numerous opportunities to resolve the matter, no corrective action has been taken. Patience has reached its limit.

Our Position

We therefore respectfully, but firmly, demand the immediate return of all DTU funds. This issue is not only about money; it is about accountability, trust, and the integrity of our community.

No further excuses. No more delays. The time to act responsibly and make this right is now.

Sincerely,

The DTU Leadership Team