Character Letter — USA v. Thurmond et. al. (Dkt. 71.5)

Record facts

U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Georgia · No. 1:23-cr-00021-JRH-BKE · Doc. 71-5 · 2024-04-29 · Docket on CourtListener

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4/3/2024 
 
U.S. District Court 
Southern District of Georgia 
Attn:  Honorable Judge J. Randal Hall 
PO Box 1130 
Augusta, GA 30903 
 
 
Dear Honorable Judge J. Randle Hall, 
 
I am writing this letter to provide a character reference for Brandon Thurmond, whom I have 
known for over 10 years. Brandon and I first met during our time as members of the University 
of Arkansas Pine-Bluff football program, where he exhibited exceptional leadership qualities as a 
recurring captain of the team. Throughout our friendship, Brandon has consistently demonstrated 
integrity, compassion, and dedication to his community. 
 
As a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., Brandon embodies the core values of 
Brotherhood, Manhood, Scholarship, Uplift, and Perseverance. His commitment to these 
principles is evident in his actions, as he has selflessly contributed to numerous community 
service projects, including community clean-ups, canned food drives, and youth mentoring 
programs. Brandon's role as a community figure in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, has allowed him to 
positively impact the lives of many through his engagement with local schools and youth sports 
programs. 
 
Beyond his community involvement, Brandon is a devoted family man who prioritizes the well-
being of his loved ones. His strong relationship with his daughter reflects his nurturing and 
supportive nature, serving as a source of inspiration for those around him. Brandon's unwavering 
faith and spiritual guidance have provided solace and encouragement to those in need, 
showcasing his role as a trusted advisor and mentor. 
 
I am aware that Brandon is being charged with a crime in federal court at this time. Since his 
release from the Department of Georgia Corrections Facility, Brandon has demonstrated genuine 
remorse for his past actions and has successfully reintegrated into society. He has resumed being 
an overachieving father to his daughter Laila and a present parent to his girlfriend’s daughter 
Dakota. Brandon has not only expressed his future endeavors in business that he plans to attempt 
to keep himself on a straight path but has also acted on some of those plans, such as his youth 
football mentorship program. His determination to lead a fulfilling and law-abiding life is 
exemplified through his commitment to his family, his professional endeavors, and his current 
mentorship program where he not only provides at-risk youth with new skills on the field but 
where he is able to share his testimony, provide an outlet and safe space through sports. I truly 
believe that there are going to be many kids who can relate to the story Brandon shares that you 
grow up, go to college, play for the NFL and in the matter of seconds your entire life can change 
Case 1:23-cr-00021-JRH-BKE     Document 71-5     Filed 04/29/24     Page 1 of 2

based off the decisions you make. He has not one time complained about the hurdles he has had 
as a first time convicted felon when it came to obtaining employment. Brandon explained to me 
the week of being released from prison  that he filled out 100 applications, went to 15 interviews 
with a resolution of 7 different companies willing to offer Brandon a job and give him a second 
chance.  Brandon’s testimony can not only help prevent children from going into the prison 
system but also encourage other individuals who may have a criminal history obtain employment 
and live a law abiding life.  
 
I believe that Brandon's continued presence in the community, coupled with his dedication to 
personal growth and positive impact, will contribute significantly to the betterment of society. I 
urge Your Honor to consider granting Brandon home supervision, as his absence would not only 
impact his family but also deprive the teenagers he works with currently of a valuable role model 
and mentor. 
 
Should you require any further information or clarification regarding Brandon's character and 
contributions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your attention to this matter. 
 
Sincerely, 
 
Dezmond Beverly 
11000 Wilshire Blvd suite #1700 
Los Angeles, CA 90024 
318-730-3167 
dgbeverly@fbi.gov 
Case 1:23-cr-00021-JRH-BKE     Document 71-5     Filed 04/29/24     Page 2 of 2

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