A Chicago community has come together to support a mother and her family after her 11-year-old son tragically lost his life while trying to protect her from her ex-boyfriend, who had recently been released from prison. The young boy, Jayden Perkins, passed away on Wednesday, as confirmed by Chicago police.
The suspect, 37-year-old Crosetti Brand, was swiftly apprehended and charged with murder for the fatal stabbing of the 11-year-old and the attempted murder of his mother, Laterria Smith, who is currently in critical condition at the hospital.
The community has raised over $100,000 to assist Laterria and her family during this difficult time.
Crosetti Brand was serving a 16-year prison sentenced for a home invasion and assault before parole
As per Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, Brand had been serving a 16-year sentence for a home invasion where he harmed someone. He was released on parole the day before he attacked Perkins.
Smith and Brand were in a relationship over 15 years ago. Brand was initially paroled in October last year.
In February, Brand was returned to prison for breaching Smith’s protection order by sending her a threatening text about visiting her home, as stated by Chicago Police Chief Detective Antoinette Ursitti.
Crosetti Brand was released from prison a second time on parole after being returned back to prison for parole violation a month earlier
After his violation in October 2023 and subsequent return to prison in February 2024, Brand was paroled again on March 12. A day later, he forced his way into Smith’s home as she was leaving to take her kids to school. Detective Ursitti reported that while inside the home, Brand allegedly killed 11-year-old Perkins and then stabbed Smith multiple times.
A 5-year-old relative of Perkins was at the home during the attack but was unharmed. According to investigators, surveillance footage showed Brand leaving the area with the knife he allegedly used in the stabbings, Ursitti said.
Smith, fiancé, and two kids lived alone
Neighbors told local reporters that Smith, who is 8 months pregnant, was living in her apartment with her fiancé and her two kids.
A fundraiser described Jayden Perkins as an “exceptional young man” known “for his leadership qualities and compassionate nature.”
