We would have greatly appreciated being contacted directly for clarification before any assumptions or public accusations were made. Open and respectful communication is always the most appropriate and professional approach.
We also want to emphasize that DTU has no objection to Abel inviting former DTU administrators or any other individuals to participate in his SYL broadcast. That is entirely his decision. DTU has no interest in interfering or restricting anyone’s participation in outside activities.
Regarding recent questions about the DTU website and organizational funds, we would like to provide a transparent update.
For several months, DTU made repeated attempts to contact the former treasurers to recover funds belonging to the organization. After numerous unsuccessful efforts, DTU was left with no choice but to file a police report and pursue the matter through small claims court.
To maintain transparency with our members, we posted an update on the DTU website to explain the situation and keep the community informed, just as many of you have requested. We are simply fulfilling our responsibility to keep members updated, in line with your wishes for open communication. Following that post, the former treasurers immediately reached out and returned the funds. They also requested that their names be removed from the public notice. We have honored that request and are currently in the process of updating the website accordingly.
Please note that the returned funds are still pending clearance, which is standard procedure to ensure the validity of the transaction and to protect DTU’s financial integrity. Once the funds have cleared, we will provide the receipts of the transferred funds, along with the filed police report regarding the dropped charges, to the former treasurers. We kindly ask that you allow Katie to perform her duties and exercise patience during this process.
Regarding DTU’s 501(c)(3) status, this process takes time and requires accurate records. Our newly appointed treasurer is working diligently to reconcile and organize all financial documentation left in disarray by the previous treasurers.
We ask for the community’s continued patience and understanding as we complete these necessary steps to ensure DTU’s compliance, accountability, and long-term stability.
Finally, DTU encourages open, respectful communication between organizations and individuals. Before forming opinions or making public statements, we believe it is always best to ask questions, listen to both sides, and verify the facts.
Thank you for taking the time to read this official response.
Deaf Truckers United Team