The law enforcement veteran discusses the crucial mistake made by former board member LeAnn Miller, and what can be learned from it.
Generally, the Prisoner Review Board exists to make sure that those released from prison are ready to make a new start for themselves, rather than fall back into board habits. But sometimes, something slips through the cracks – with devastating results.
LeAnn Miller was a member of the Illinois Prisoner Review Board, and signed off on the release of Crosetti Brand, a 37-year old serving a 16-year sentence for home invasion and aggravated assault. Miller thought Brand would make a change for the better. Instead, just a day later, he assaulted his pregnant girlfriend and killed an 11-year old boy, leading to his arrest.
Miller has since resigned from the board, and according to Governor J.B. Pritzker, there was good reason.
“The Prisoner Review Board must be able to operate independently as they review enormously difficult cases, but I believe LeAnn Miller has made the correct decision in stepping down from her role.” He noted. “It is clear that evidence in this case was not given the careful consideration that victims of domestic violence deserve and I am committed to ensuring additional safeguards and training are in place to prevent tragedies like this from happening again.”
What does this say about parole boards in general, and the steps they must take to assure that reformed prisoners won’t fall back into old habits?
Joining us now to discuss this further is Michael Letts, a law enforcement veteran with over 30 years of experience under his belt. Letts is President, Founder and CEO of InVest USA, an organization that provides bulletproof vests to police officers through various charitable groups and sponsorships. His expertise in all things law and order make him an ideal guest for the show. Welcome, Mr. Letts!
Q&A:
- Do you believe Miller made a genuine mistake overlooking evidence and granting Brand his release from prison?
- What kind of factors come into play when it comes to granting someone parole? A look at their history? How they behaved in prison? Perhaps both?
- Do you think Miller did the right thing in stepping down?
- What does this say about the state of prisoner review boards, and what mistakes can be overcome to make them for the better?
- Do you believe most prisoners are just trying to find a second chance at life? Or is this simply an opportunity for them to fall back into their old ways? Does it really depend on the prisoner?
- You’re the creator of InVest USA, an organization that provides bulletproof vests to police officers across a number of programs. Tell us more about it.
- Where can we learn more about InVest USA, and how those interested can help their fellow officers, especially in their time of need?
- You can visit our official InVest USA website, and learn more on the official Invest USA Twitter account. You can also learn about my new initiative at RestoringJustice.US, where we discuss lawful issues surrounding citizens of the United States.
About Michael Letts…
Michael Letts is the Founder, President, and CEO of InVest USA, a national grassroots non-profit organization that is helping hundreds of communities provide thousands of bulletproof vests for their police forces through educational, public relations, sponsorship, and fundraising programs. He also has over 30 years of law enforcement experience under his belt, hence his pro-police stance for his brothers and sisters in blue. Officer Letts has been a frequent guest on Fox Business News, NewsMax TV, One America News and hundreds of radio programs. Those interested in learning more about Letts can visit his official website here.
CONTACT: Jerry McGlothlin at: geraldmcg@outlook.com or 919-437-0001.
