No Floyd-like gold caskets for 11-year-old hero, killed protecting mother from paroled convict

CHICAGO, IL - A tragic incident unfolded on Chicago's North Side, where Crosetti Brand, 37, stands accused of perpetrating a devastating act of violence, leaving an 11-year-old boy dead and a pregnant mother critically injured in their Edgewater home. Authorities have characterized the event as a domestic incident.

Brand faces a slew of charges, including first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, armed robbery, home invasion, and domestic battery. The gravity of the situation was palpable in the courtroom, where family members of the victims sought to confront Brand. Despite the emotionally charged atmosphere, a judge ordered Brand to be held in custody.

"This defendant has a history of domestic violence and had only been recently released from serving a sentence from a prior conviction," Cook County State's Attorney Kim Foxx said. "The victim had an order of protection against him from previous encounters, and this history paints a disturbing pattern of behavior which emphasizes the importance of the filing of the charges today."

Brand's recent release from jail has drawn scrutiny, given his documented history of violence. Just a day before the tragic events, he had been released, raising questions about the adequacy of the justice system's response to individuals with a history of domestic violence.

Chicago Police Chief of Detectives Antoinette Ursitti highlighted that Brand's release occurred despite prior parole violations and concerning behavior.

"When he was paroled and placed on electronic monitoring this past October, while he was on parole, he threatens the female victim via text - and also showed up at her home," said Ursitti. "He was sent back to prison in February for this parole violation."

The sequence of events leading to the fatal stabbing reveals a disturbing pattern. The victim, a 33-year-old woman, had previously sought protection from Brand, indicating a history of fear and intimidation spanning more than 15 years. Despite her efforts to safeguard herself and her family, including obtaining orders of protection, she found herself in a harrowing situation when Brand forced his way into her home as she was preparing to take her children to school.

Tragically, the 11-year-old boy, identified as Jayden Perkins, intervened to shield his mother from harm. His heroic act cost him his life, leaving the community mourning the loss of a young life full of promise.

Jayden's bravery in the face of danger has been widely acknowledged, with neighbors and officials alike honoring his selfless actions.

The circumstances surrounding Brand's release have sparked outrage and disbelief. Despite a history of violent offenses and parole violations, he found himself back on the streets, posing a threat to those he had previously victimized. The failure of the justice system to prevent such a tragedy has prompted calls for a thorough review to identify and address any systemic shortcomings.

In response to the senseless violence, community leaders and advocates have rallied to support the victims' families. Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Jayden Perkins and emphasized the need for systemic reforms to prevent similar tragedies.

In his statement, Mayor Johnson said, "This despicable crime is a horrific reminder of the need for us to correct systemic failures, address the root causes of violence in our community, and continue to support our domestic violence and gender-based violence survivors, their families and communities, and the providers and advocates who do this work daily. 

"We will continue to build on those resources, collaborating with our advocates, the County and the State to leverage every opportunity available, as we know there is much more work to do on this front. Jayden was a bright light in his community. We grieve alongside his family and community as we reckon with this unthinkable loss. We pray for Jayden's mother's recovery. We will never forget Jayden, who was taken from us much too soon. May God rest his soul in eternal peace."

Amidst the community's profound sorrow and disbelief, Jayden Perkins continues to shine as a symbol of courage and kindness. Revered as an exceptional young man, Jayden's academic excellence was unmistakable, as reflected by his straight A's and consistent presence on the honor roll. Yet, beyond his scholastic achievements, Jayden's zeal extended to a myriad of extracurricular pursuits, from cross-country to football, and active involvement in the arts.

These diverse interests, which enriched his life, are commemorated on a memorial website dedicated to him.

"Jayden had a passion for performing and theater, taking on lead roles in several school plays, including 'Finding Nemo' at Peirce Elementary."