A Boston City Council member is voicing strong criticism over a “de-crime” policy that allowed a man, who reportedly opened fire in Cambridge, to be released after serving a short sentence for a violent offense. Councilman Ed Flynn expressed his outrage, noting that Tyler Brown, 46, should never have been permitted to be on probation, especially given his extensive criminal history.
On Monday afternoon, Brown allegedly fired between 50 to 60 shots into traffic on Memorial Drive, resulting in a terrifying incident that quickly spread on social media. It’s reported that he was also among those shot during the chaos and is currently recovering in a hospital.
“He should absolutely not have been released,” Flynn stated, emphasizing the need for harsher sentences for repeat offenders. He believes that those with extensive criminal backgrounds need to face the consequences of their actions, especially when they repeatedly disregard the law.
Brown has a history marred by violence. In 2014, he was convicted for assault with a dangerous weapon, specifically a knife, alongside charges of witness intimidation. His record worsened in 2020 when he engaged in a shootout with Boston police, firing at officers responding to a gun-related incident. That encounter led to multiple charges in 2021, including armed assault with intent to murder, among others.
Flynn mentioned that he knows one of the officers involved in the 2020 incident, who voiced concerns about Brown’s likelihood of reoffending. According to Flynn, it’s crucial to consider the impact on victims when deciding sentencing. He argued that authorities must weigh the testimony of victims and witnesses in determining appropriate sentences, which he feels did not happen in this case.
Brown was handed a controversial five to six-year prison sentence for the 2020 shooting— a decision criticized by former Suffolk County District Attorney Rachel Rollins, who advocated for a longer punishment.
Flynn emphasized the frustration shared by police officers regarding lenient crime policies, advocating for stricter accountability in the justice system. He expressed that it’s essential for the safety of the community and the well-being of victims that genuine consequences are enforced for criminal behavior.
In a recent turn of events, Brown had contacted his parole officer just hours before the violent incident, indicating he was in a troubled state and not at his residence. Witnesses reported him firing shots erratically, injuring two people. Following the shooting, law enforcement also exchanged gunfire with him.
Brown now faces multiple charges, including armed assault and attempted murder, which could have significant consequences as the legal process unfolds.
