Convicted Felon Charged in Brutal Murder of 11-Year-Old Boy and Stabbing of Pregnant Mother

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
16/03/2024 16h47

In a shocking and tragic incident, a 37-year-old man has been charged with the murder of 11-year-old Jayden Perkins and the stabbing of his pregnant mother. The suspect, identified as Crosetti Brand, had been released on parole for the second time in five months, just one day before the heart-wrenching attack.

Investigation reports reveal that the brutal stabbing occurred inside the victims' home, located at the Peterson Plaza apartment complex on Ravenswood Avenue. Brand, a convicted felon with a lengthy criminal history, faces multiple charges including first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, three counts of home invasion with a dangerous weapon, armed robbery, aggravated domestic battery, unlawful use of a weapon, violation of an order of protection, and a warrant for parole violation.

According to court records, the incident took place on Wednesday morning when the mother was preparing to take her two sons to school. As she opened the door, the assailant reportedly forcefully entered the premises and launched a vicious attack. In a valiant attempt to protect his mother, young Jayden Perkins was fatally stabbed in the chest. The pregnant mother, aged 33 and four months along, also suffered multiple stab wounds but is expected to survive, along with her unborn child. Fortunately, the younger brother, who witnessed the brutal assault, escaped physical harm.

Brand's criminal record reveals that he was serving a 16-year sentence for home invasion, possession of a stolen motor vehicle, and aggravated domestic battery in a previous case involving a different victim. Prosecutors highlighted that Brand had violated an order of protection regarding the current victim in 2008, for which he received a three-year sentence.

Alarming details emerged about Brand's harassment against the victim leading up to the tragic event. The victim had registered herself in the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) system to receive alerts about Brand's release. On January 30, Brand allegedly sent threatening text messages to the victim and subsequently appeared at her home on February 1, attempting to gain entry. The victim promptly contacted the parole board, resulting in Brand's temporary return to custody. Tragically, he was released on parole again on March 12, just one day before the fatal attack.

Authorities have gathered substantial evidence against Brand, including surveillance videos placing him near the crime scene and on CTA cameras while leaving the area after the incident. Furthermore, items with a blood-like substance, such as a knife, clothing, and a stolen cellphone belonging to the victim, have been recovered and are pending forensic testing.

The devastating loss of young Jayden Perkins has deeply affected family, friends, and the community. A vigil was held at the apartment complex, where over 70 classmates, teachers, and families gathered to honor his memory. Plans are underway to rewrite a script as a tribute to him, reflecting the immense impact he had on those around him.

Brand has been ordered detained and is scheduled to appear in court on April 3. Emotions ran high during the hearing, with distraught family members expressing their grief and anger.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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