In a shocking turn of events, a state parole board member in Illinois has resigned after recommending the release of a man who later attacked a pregnant woman and fatally stabbed her 11-year-old son. The incident has prompted Governor J.B. Pritzker to enact significant changes in procedures to handle cases involving domestic violence.

The resigned parole board member, LeAnn Miller, submitted her resignation following the tragic attack. Miller had prepared a report recommending the release of Crosetti Brand, a 37-year-old felon with a history of violating orders of protection and threatening Laterria Smith, the victim in this case.

According to authorities, on March 13, Brand went to Smith's apartment armed with a knife and assaulted her. When her son, Jayden Perkins, bravely tried to protect his mother, Brand fatally stabbed him. Smith, 33, remains hospitalized in critical condition, but doctors are hopeful for her survival as well as that of her unborn child. Fortunately, her 6-year-old son, who was present during the attack, was unharmed.

Governor Pritzker expressed his support for Miller's decision to resign, acknowledging that the evidence in this case was not given the careful consideration that victims of domestic violence deserve. He announced plans to revamp procedures, implement additional safeguards, and provide expanded training to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The Illinois Prisoner Review Board, following protocol, had two other board members, Ken Tupy and Krystal Tison, concur with Miller's recommendation. However, it is unclear whether any action will be taken against them. The need for improved information sharing on domestic violence cases will also be addressed by the Department of Corrections and the Prisoner Review Board.

Crosetti Brand, who had previously been convicted for attacking another ex-partner in 2015, is now facing charges of first-degree murder and multiple other violent felonies related to the recent attack. Despite being paroled in October, Brand was sent back to prison in February after repeatedly contacting Smith, who had an order of protection against him.

Governor Pritzker has ordered the Prisoner Review Board to engage experts and advocates to develop and implement expanded training specifically for cases involving domestic violence. Furthermore, he has indicated the possibility of legislative changes to enhance officials' legal authority in such instances.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for a comprehensive approach to dealing with domestic violence. The state of Illinois now finds itself at a critical juncture, with the imperative to prevent further tragedies and ensure the safety of all its residents.