Coach Drouzon Quillen's Appeal and Legal fees

My name is Drouzon Quillen, and I play many important roles in my life, including being a father of two, a soon-to-be husband, a brother, a son, a friend, a cousin, a teacher, a mentor, and a community leader. Unfortunately, on August 3, 2023, I was wrongfully convicted of Battery on a police officer. This injustice is a result of systematic racism and a failed justice system.

While I was performing my coaching duties, overseeing plays at a high school football game where our team was leading, I was violently attacked on the opponents' side. Not only was I assaulted by fans, but also by an off-duty sheriff who did not identify himself as law enforcement. He did not show a badge, and I was unaware of his authority. I was choked, thrown to the ground, kicked, punched, and had drinks thrown at me. In fear for my safety and wanting to return to my family, I had no choice but to defend myself. This was an unimaginable and traumatic experience that should never happen to anyone.

I am reaching out for support in fighting for justice. It is crucial for us to take a stand by signing petitions, contacting the governor's office, involving organizations like the NAACP, and filing complaints to expose the acts of the Franklin Parish Sheriff and those involved in attacking me. It is disheartening that no charges were brought against those who caused me harm. Furthermore, it is deeply troubling that the judge chose to accept the testimony of only two white witnesses over a 31-year Army veteran, two Monroe City police officers, myself as the victim, and other eyewitnesses who saw that I was not the aggressor. The unidentified sheriff, in fact, was the one who escalated the situation. The odds were already stacked against me, but with faith and determination, we will appeal and fight against this injustice.

I humbly request your support in the appeal process. Those who know me are aware of my good character. My parents instilled in me the value of standing up for what is right, because if we do not, we may fall for anything. I ask you to stand in solidarity with me to help fight this grave injustice. As of now, I am serving a 45-day sentence, and I have been relieved of my coaching duties and working with disabled students at Carroll High School, which is not only my calling but also my passion. This will be a long and arduous process, and any assistance and support are greatly appreciated.

Let us unite under the hashtags #STANDFORWHATISRIGHT, #SUPPORTCOACHQ, #CARROLLSTRONG, and #BLACKLIVESMATTER to shed light on this injustice and advocate for a fair resolution. Together, we can make a difference.