Man who received chance for parole in 2009 in Mass. child homicide case is arrested in RI

Joseph Cousin, a 40-year-old man with a troubled past, was arrested in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, after police raided a property on North Bend Street. Cousin had previously served over 20 years for the murder of 10-year-old Trina Persad in 2002, a case that shocked the community and highlighted the dangers of gang violence. During the raid, Pawtucket police seized two handguns, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and significant amounts of fentanyl and cocaine. Following his arrest, Judge Debra Saunders ordered Cousin to be held without bail, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges against him. He now faces multiple counts related to drug manufacturing and possession, as well as several weapons offenses.

The arrest has reignited discussions about the challenges of reintegrating ex-offenders into society and the implications for community safety. Cousin’s past conviction and recent arrest illustrate the ongoing struggles faced by those with criminal histories. This incident not only raises questions about rehabilitation but also about the effectiveness of monitoring released offenders.