http://www.koin.com/webnews/20042/20040507_mayfieldc.shtml Family, Friends Shocked At Alleged Terrorism Link
Anna Katayama, KOIN 6 News
PORTLAND -- Brandon Mayfield's mother is on her way to Portland to offer support to her grandchildren and daughter-in-law.
Avnel Mayfield says the family's bank accounts have been frozen and that her daughter-in-law was left with no access to money.
"He is the most mild-mannered, soft-spoken, compassionate person there ever could be," she said of Brandon.
Avnel Mayfield can't fathom the suggestion that Brandon Mayfield might be connected to a terrorist group. She says her son went to college on a track scholarship, served in the U.S. Army as a second lieutenant and put himself through law school.
"He has no smirch on his career, he has never been disciplined by the Oregon State Bar. He's a god-fearing young man," family friend Tom Nelson said.
Friends in Oregon are still shocked about the accusations are doing what they can to help Mayfield's wife.
"I'm upset this has leaked out. There has been no charges against my husband, and we pray for his early release," Mona Mayfield said.
Mayfield met his wife while he was a soldier stationed at Fort Lewis, Wash. He converted to Islam a few years after the marriage.
"It seemed to give him a spiritual anchor. I think he felt secure in that faith -- he raised his children as Muslims," Avnel Mayfield said.
She wonders if Brandon's faith is part of what got him in trouble. Reflecting on her son's arrest and the ransacking of his home, she questions the Patriot Act.
"I think this is a wakeup call that this is the age of Big Brother. I think the Patriot Act is an abomination against the laws of our country. I don't think anyone's safe.