Defendant Claims Ex-Girlfriend Stabbed 11-Year-Old Son: Shocking Testimony in Murder Trial

In a shocking turn of events in the ongoing trial of Crosetti Brand, the defendant took the stand Monday, offering a self-defense narrative that directly contradicts previous testimony. Brand is charged with the murder of 11-year-old Jayden Perkins and the attempted murder of Jayden's pregnant mother, Laterria Smith. Brand's testimony centers on the claim that Smith, his ex-girlfriend, was the one who stabbed the boy. "I didn't kill Jayden Perkins," Brand stated, adding, "When she came towards me she put it in him." This statement directly clashes with Smith's ex-fiancé's account, who placed Brand at the scene shortly before the attack. The March 13, 2024 incident occurred just one day after Brand's release from prison, where he had a history of violence against women. Smith has since filed a civil lawsuit against the parole board that approved his release. Two board members resigned following the tragedy. The trial continues tomorrow.