The federal magistrate judge who released Decarlos Brown Jr. just months before he murdered a Ukrainian woman on a train has been identified as Teresa Stokes. Brown, a 34-year-old homeless man with a long history of violence and a schizophrenia diagnosis, had been arrested multiple times prior to his release. Despite his criminal record, which included charges such as armed robbery and assault, Stokes allowed him to walk free on a “written promise” to return for court appearances. This decision came despite Brown’s repeated admissions that he would kill again if released, according to reports.
Brown’s history of instability included a 2014 diagnosis of schizophrenia and a 2021 incident where he assaulted his sister. He was also placed under psychiatric monitoring after his mother secured an involuntary commitment order in 2014, though she later had to evict him due to his aggression. During a January 2023 arrest for allegedly misusing the 911 system, Brown told officers he believed “man-made” materials were controlling his movements, leading to his detention. Yet Stokes released him on no-cash bail based solely on his promise to appear in court.
Seven months later, Brown was accused of stabbing Iryna Zarutska, a Ukrainian woman, on a train. The case has drawn scrutiny for highlighting what critics call systemic failures in judicial accountability. Stokes, who also serves as director of a mental health treatment facility in Charlotte, faced questions about potential conflicts of interest after her decision to release Brown. The court documents show she authorized his release with only a “written promise” and no additional safeguards.
The incident has sparked outrage over the judge’s handling of cases involving individuals with severe mental health issues and criminal histories. Critics argue that Stokes’ actions prioritized procedural convenience over public safety, enabling a violent offender to harm an innocent person. The case underscores broader concerns about how courts evaluate risks posed by repeat offenders, particularly those with untreated mental illnesses.
