Introduction to the Trial
The trial of Crosetti Brand, the accused killer of 11-year-old Jayden Perkins, who was allegedly trying to defend his pregnant mother, Laterria Smith, from an attack, began on Monday at Chicago’s Leighton Criminal Courts Building. Brand, who is representing himself despite having no prior legal training, repeatedly clashed with the presiding Cook County judge, causing a tumultuous start to the trial.
Background of the Case
Authorities say that on the early morning of March 13, 2024, Brand forced his way into the home shared by Perkins and his mother, despite an active order of protection, and began stabbing Smith, who was four months pregnant at the time. Perkins allegedly tried to defend his mother and was also stabbed, later succumbing to his injuries. Brand allegedly stabbed Smith 11 times, and prosecutors say he became enraged over Smith’s decision to break off their on-again, off-again relationship that spanned 15 years.
Testimony of Laterria Smith
Laterria Smith, the mother of Jayden Perkins, testified against the accused killer on the first day of the trial. Her emotions poured through as she described the fatal stabbing, causing a temporary break in court proceedings. Following what sheriff’s deputies described as a panic attack, Smith returned to the stand to identify Brand as the man who killed her son. Brand cross-examined Smith, asking her if she had ever been in possession of or controlled the knife prosecutors say he used to kill Jayden Perkins. Smith denied she ever brandished the knife.
Cross-Examination by Brand
As part of his at-times rambling and incoherent cross-examination, Brand asked the judge and Cook County sheriff’s deputies to bring out the knife prosecutors say he used to kill 11-year-old Jayden Perkins. He also asked Smith if she had relayed to investigating detectives that the two had a sexual relationship. Smith replied, "Yes, I told them." 
Opening Statements
Prior to Smith’s testimony, Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney Danny Hanichak credited Perkins for saving his pregnant mother’s life on March 13, 2024, in opening statements. "The evidence is overwhelming that Laterria Smith is a survivor," Hanichak said. "The evidence is overwhelming that Jayden Perkins is a hero." 
Charges Against Brand
Brand faces 17 charges, including first-degree murder and domestic battery. Representing himself in court, Brand told jurors in a short opening statement that "self-defense is not a crime." "(The) defender(‘s) intent was not to commit a crime, but was to defend himself," Brand added.
Conclusion
The trial of Crosetti Brand is a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence. Jayden Perkins’ bravery in defending his mother is an inspiration to us all, and his legacy will live on. The trial will continue on Tuesday, and it is hoped that justice will be served for the victims and their families. 
FAQs
- What is the trial about?
The trial is about the accused killer, Crosetti Brand, who is charged with the murder of 11-year-old Jayden Perkins and the stabbing of his pregnant mother, Laterria Smith. - Who is representing Crosetti Brand?
Crosetti Brand is representing himself in court, despite having no prior legal training. - What are the charges against Crosetti Brand?
Crosetti Brand faces 17 charges, including first-degree murder and domestic battery. - Where can victims of domestic violence seek help?
The Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at: 1-877-863-6338, and the National Domestic Violence Hotline is: 1-800-799-7233.
