In Springfield, Illinois, a significant shake-up occurred within the state’s parole board following a tragic incident that resulted in a member’s resignation. This event unfolded after the board recommended the release of a man who, just a day after his release, launched a brutal attack on a pregnant woman in Chicago, using a knife. The assault took a devastating turn when the woman’s 11-year-old son attempted to protect his mother and was fatally stabbed by the assailant.
The Illinois Prisoner Review Board’s decision-making process has come under intense scrutiny, prompting Governor J.B. Pritzker to mandate a comprehensive overhaul of the procedures related to handling domestic violence cases. In response to the fallout, LeAnn Miller, 63, from Junction, tendered her resignation. Miller had been instrumental in drafting the report that led to the release of 37-year-old Crosetti Brand, a felon with a history of violating protection orders and issuing threats towards Laterria Smith of Chicago. On March 13, Brand escalated his threats into action by attacking Smith in her apartment with a knife. During the attack, Smith’s son, Jayden Perkins, heroically intervened but tragically lost his life in the process.
The incident has sparked a wave of criticism and concern, leading to a public outcry for justice and a reevaluation of parole board protocols. Smith, 33, is currently battling for her life in the hospital, with her condition described as critical. Despite the dire circumstances, there is hope for both her and her unborn child’s survival. Remarkably, Smith’s 6-year-old son, who was present during the attack, escaped unharmed.
Governor Pritzker has publicly stated that Miller’s decision to resign was appropriate under the circumstances. However, it was noted that Pritzker did not explicitly request her resignation. The governor expressed a strong commitment to enhancing the protection of domestic violence victims and ensuring that such cases receive the attention and consideration they deserve. This commitment includes implementing additional safeguards and training for the parole board.
The controversy has also shed light on the broader procedural practices of the Illinois Prisoner Review Board. Two other board members, Ken Tupy and Krystal Tison, had agreed with Miller’s recommendation for Brand’s release, raising questions about the board’s decision-making process. In response to the incident, Governor Pritzker has ordered the board to collaborate with experts and advocates to develop and implement advanced training focused on domestic violence. Additionally, the board, along with the Department of Corrections, is set to review and possibly revise its information-sharing procedures concerning domestic violence cases.
Crosetti Brand, now facing charges in Cook County for first-degree murder among other violent felonies, had previously served half of a 16-year sentence for assaulting another ex-partner in 2015. His parole in October came to an abrupt end when he was re-incarcerated in February after allegations of contacting Smith, who had an order of protection against him. Despite these allegations, Brand was released after a parole board hearing where he denied the accusations, and his lawyer presented evidence suggesting no violations of his movement restrictions.
This tragic case has ignited a critical conversation about the effectiveness and sensitivity of parole board decisions, especially concerning domestic violence. Governor Pritzker’s initiative to revamp procedures and enforce stricter guidelines aims to prevent such heartbreaking incidents from occurring in the future, ensuring that victims of domestic violence receive the protection and justice they rightfully deserve.