On March 13, Jayden Perkins, an 11-year-old boy, tragically lost his life while trying to shield his mother during a domestic violence argument.
The lethal incident took place at around 8 a.m. Laterria Smith, 33, the boy’s pregnant mother, was preparing to take Jayden and his younger brother, aged five, to school. Crosetti Brand, 37, against whom Smith had a restraining order, forcefully entered their residence, stabbing both the child and his mother, according to police reports.
After serving a 16-year sentence for a previous home invasion, Brand, who was on parole, was charged on March 15 with first-degree murder, attempted murder, home invasion with a dangerous weapon, armed robbery, and domestic battery, among other charges. This is not the first instance of Brand’s run-ins with the law regarding domestic violence, as he has violated protection orders three times before, as disclosed by the police.
Smith had a relationship with Crosetti 15 years ago and had a significant history of seeking protection from him after their romantic involvement ended, including a current Order of Protection.
Another former partner of Brand revealed in a recent phone call that his early release was shocking. Court records show that Brand had previously invaded his former girlfriend’s home, attacked her, threatened her 15-year-old son, and even strangled her after pressing a firearm against her face.
Despite being sentenced to 16 years for the home invasion, Brand was paroled in October 2023. On February 1st, he allegedly threatened Smith and was sent back to prison for violating his parole. He was released again on March 12 and attacked Smith and Jayden the following day.
Larry Snelling, Chicago Police Superintendent, and Cook County State Attorney Kimberly M. Foxx emphasized the profound impact of the incident on the victims and the community at large. Foxx referred to the crime as one that “shocked our city to its core,” noting the tragic loss of a young life and the attack on a mother in her home—a supposed safe haven.
Perkins was revered for his remarkable character at both his school, Peirce Elementary School, and at the Gus Giordano Dance School, where he was recognized for his passion for dance and performance. He performed lead roles in several school plays, demonstrating his talent and love for the arts. The dance school shared memories of Perkins, emphasizing the joy and positivity he brought to those around him. A fundraiser hosted by his school and dance community remembered him as a young man whose laughter and kindness left a lasting impact.
In the courtroom, family members rushed towards Brand, attempting to reach him across the courtroom dividers. Security staff intervened, escorting them out of both the courtroom and the George N. Leighton Criminal Courthouse. Despite the disruption, they were not held in contempt of court.
Smith, currently in her eighth month of pregnancy, is expected to recover, and her unborn child survived the attack.
