A Massachusetts judge confessed she was ‘taking a chance’ on Tyler Brown when she rejected prosecutor recommendations and gave him a light sentence years before he allegedly unleashed a violent shooting rampage on Cambridge streets this week, injuring two citizens.

Judge Ignored Warnings From Law Enforcement

Retired Suffolk Superior Court Judge Sanders acknowledged the risk in 2021 audio recordings, saying experienced police and probation officers warned her Brown posed a danger to the community. Despite their expert testimony, she sentenced him to just four years for armed assault with intent to murder against Boston police officers. Prosecutors had recommended 12 years in prison followed by five years of probation after Brown fired 13 rounds at officers during a 2020 confrontation, striking one officer’s chest with a .40 Glock semiautomatic rifle.

Then-Suffolk County District Attorney Rachael Rollins expressed disappointment with the sentence, stating the prosecution’s recommendation matched the level of brazen violence Brown committed. The Boston Police Patrolmen’s Union called Sanders’ sentencing decision a complete ball-drop after Monday’s shooting. Brown was released from prison on May 21 last year after serving his shortened term.

Warning Signs Ignored Before Monday Attack

Brown had been discharged from McLean psychiatric hospital just three days before his alleged rampage. Police reports revealed he suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. The known crack cocaine user told his parole officer he had relapsed and was ready to end his life. His housemate warned Brown was off his rocker and getting high, prompting the parole officer to demand an emergency meeting. During a FaceTime call, Brown appeared wielding a semi-automatic rifle, threatening people would pay and declaring he would not return to prison.

Rampage Stopped By Armed Citizens And Police

Brown allegedly fired erratically at vehicles on Memorial Drive, striking two men. A Massachusetts State Police trooper and a Marine licensed to carry a firearm arrived to find citizens jumping from cars and taking cover. The pair charged toward Brown with their weapons drawn and shot him multiple times, ending the threat. Brown received treatment at the scene before transport to a local hospital. Retired Judge Jack Lu defended the original sentencing decision, stating judges cannot predict the future and must rule fairly for everyone involved in cases.