The resignation of a state parole board member in Illinois has brought attention to a tragic incident where a released felon, Crosetti Brand, attacked a pregnant woman, Laterria Smith, with a knife, resulting in the death of her 11-year-old son, Jayden Perkins. The parole board member, LeAnn Miller, had recommended Brand’s release from prison despite his history of violating orders of protection and threatening Smith. The attack took place on March 13, leaving Smith critically injured and her unborn child at risk. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for reforms in how cases of domestic violence are handled by the Prisoner Review Board.
In response to the handling of the case, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker ordered a revamp of procedures for dealing with situations involving domestic violence. Miller, the parole board member who recommended Brand’s release, submitted her resignation in the aftermath of the tragic incident. Pritzker expressed support for Miller’s decision to step down and emphasized the need for additional safeguards and training to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. The governor’s office is working to ensure that evidence in cases of domestic violence is given the attention and consideration it deserves.
The Prisoner Review Board’s procedures in handling Brand’s case have come under scrutiny, with two other board members concurring with Miller’s recommendation for his release. Pritzker has called for expanded training for board members in domestic violence cases and a review of procedures for sharing information on cases involving domestic violence. The governor has also hinted at the possibility of legislation to broaden officials’ legal authority in such instances to prevent similar incidents from happening. Brand, who had previously served time for attacking another ex-partner in 2015, is facing charges for first-degree murder and other violent crimes related to the attack on Smith and her son.
Brand’s interactions with Smith, whom he had a past relationship with, led to multiple parole violations and eventually his return to prison in February. Despite Smith’s order of protection against him, Brand denied going to her apartment during a parole board hearing and provided evidence that his electronic monitoring bracelet did not show any violations. The parole board determined there was insufficient evidence to verify Smith’s claims, leading to Brand’s release before the fatal attack. The tragic incident has highlighted the importance of thorough consideration and proper handling of cases involving domestic violence to protect victims and prevent further harm. Smith’s surviving son, who was present during the attack, escaped physical harm, but the family continues to deal with the emotional and physical aftermath of the brutal attack.
