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Trial Advances for Crosetti Brand, Accused of Killing 11-Year-Old Jayden Perkins

Emotional testimony unfolds as Brand represents himself in the murder trial, highlighting systemic failures in protecting domestic violence victims.

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Laterria Smith leaves the Leighton Criminal Court Building in Chicago on May 12, 2025, after testifying in the murder trial of Crosetti Brand, who is accused of killing Smith’s son, Jayden Perkins. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)
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Overview

  • Crosetti Brand, 39, faces 17 charges, including first-degree murder, for the March 2024 stabbing death of 11-year-old Jayden Perkins in Edgewater, Chicago.
  • Jayden was fatally stabbed while defending his pregnant mother, Laterria Smith, who survived the attack despite being stabbed 11 times.
  • Brand, representing himself in court, has caused disruptions during proceedings, including questioning Smith and clashing with the judge over courtroom procedures.
  • Smith and a neighbor have delivered emotional testimony detailing the attack and its aftermath, with Smith identifying Brand as her son’s killer.
  • The case has intensified scrutiny of parole and domestic violence protections, following Brand’s release from prison one day before the attack despite prior violations and threats.