The communities of Harrisburg and Steelton, Pennsylvania, are grieving the unexpected passing of Brandon J. Flood, a respected policy leader, advocate for reform, and devoted friend. He died over the weekend at the age of 43, leaving behind a legacy defined by resilience, transformation, and a lifelong commitment to public service.
A Champion for Justice
Brandon Flood, who served as Secretary of the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons from 2019 to 2021, was widely regarded as a “champion for justice.” His passing was announced Monday by Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, who shared that Flood’s absence leaves “a hole in the community of Harrisburg.”
Flood’s story was one of redemption and determination. Born and raised in Harrisburg, his early life was marked by hardship, including arrests related to drug offenses and firearm possession that led to an eight-year prison sentence between 2000 and 2010. He openly spoke about his struggles, recalling how his journey into drug dealing began in middle school and escalated until it resulted in incarceration. He also survived being shot three times during a robbery.
Yet, rather than allowing those experiences to define his future, Flood rebuilt his life with extraordinary resolve. Following his release, he turned his focus to public service, reform, and second chances—becoming an example of transformation for others navigating similar challenges.
Service and Leadership
Over the years, Flood held a variety of roles in state government, including legislative assistant, senior research analyst, and Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus. In 2019, after receiving a full pardon for his prior convictions, he was appointed Secretary of the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons by then–Lt. Gov. John Fetterman.
As Secretary, he worked tirelessly to advance mercy and clemency, helping to open doors for Pennsylvanians seeking to clear their records and rebuild their lives. His lived experience gave him a rare and powerful perspective in the role, and criminal justice reform advocates praised his leadership. Though he resigned in December 2021 citing philosophical differences, his impact during his tenure remains undeniable.
Flood also served on the Dauphin County Prison Advisory Board from 2020 to 2021 and ran for the Republican nomination for lieutenant governor in 2022. While his campaign was not successful, it reflected his passion for expanding his influence and advocacy across the state.
Continued Advocacy
Even after leaving public office, Flood remained deeply engaged in reform and community development. He served as Deputy Director of CeaseFirePA from 2022 to 2024, where he focused on gun violence prevention and responsible firearm policy. Later, he worked as Associate Director for Workforce Development at the Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site, where he helped individuals with criminal records access employment opportunities.
He also founded The Lazarus Firm, LLC in 2022, a consulting business dedicated to providing affordable administrative support for people with criminal histories. Alongside his business, he worked independently as a lobbyist and reentry consultant, consistently using his voice and expertise to uplift others.
Personal Battles and Strength
In November 2021, Flood was diagnosed with chronic heart failure, a condition that required a full heart transplant the following month. Despite these serious health challenges, he pressed on with courage and determination, never stepping back from his mission of advocacy and reform.
Friends and colleagues describe him as a fighter, a loyal companion, and a man who consistently created opportunities for others. Harrisburg City Councilman Lamont Jones, a longtime friend, said: “Brandon’s family and the community as a whole has lost a special guy. He definitely was a fighter, a conduit, a loyal friend, a good father, and a good person overall. He will be deeply missed.”
State leaders echoed this sentiment. State Sen. Patty Kim praised Flood as “passionate, inspirational, and missed in Harrisburg,” while Carlisle Mayor Sean Shultz remembered him as a “tireless advocate” who uplifted entire communities through his encouragement and partnership.
A Legacy That Endures
Brandon Flood’s life was a testament to the power of redemption, the importance of second chances, and the belief that one person can change countless lives. His journey from incarceration to leadership embodied the very principles he fought for—mercy, justice, and opportunity.
Though his passing at just 43 years old is a profound loss, the ripple effects of his work remain strong. From the men and women who earned pardons under his leadership to the individuals he mentored and inspired, his influence will endure long beyond his years.
Flood will be remembered as a father, a friend, a fighter, and above all, a servant to the community. His story will continue to inspire those who believe in the possibility of transformation and the promise of hope.