The alleged encouragement of criminal activity by a parent has cast a dark shadow over a Milwaukee community, as a mother and her teenage sons face serious charges connected to a string of armed robberies that terrorized the city’s East Side and Riverwest neighborhoods last summer. The case has ignited discussions about parental responsibility, the vulnerability of communities to youth crime, and the complex factors that can contribute to such situations.
At the heart of this disturbing narrative is Reba Bearden, the mother accused of not only being aware of her sons’ alleged criminal activities but also seemingly expressing approval. According to a criminal complaint, during a recorded jail conversation with her older son, Kamaurion Bearden, 19, Reba Bearden reportedly referenced a news report about a robbery at Café Corazón on Bremen Street, allegedly committed by his associates. In a statement that has shocked many, she is accused of saying she was “proud of them” and remarked, “These boys working.” Authorities interpret this statement as an allusion to the robberies her sons and their associates were allegedly committing.
The younger son, 15-year-old Darreion Bearden, is facing a significant number of felony charges, underscoring the severity of his alleged involvement. These charges include conspiracy to commit armed robbery, possession of a firearm by an adjudicated delinquent, conspiracy to commit substantial battery, and attempted armed robbery. The criminal complaint details an incident in August where Darreion and his associates allegedly attacked two individuals outside Café Corazón. During this incident, one victim was reportedly struck with a firearm, and a purse was stolen. The victims received assistance from a restaurant manager in the aftermath of the attack. Given the seriousness of the charges and his age, prosecutors have decided to pursue his case in adult court. His bail has been set at $50,000, and he is scheduled to appear in court next week.
The older brother, Kamaurion Bearden, was apprehended weeks prior to the Café Corazón incident but is also implicated in the group’s alleged activities and faces charges of armed robbery. His legal proceedings are further along, with a plea and sentencing hearing scheduled for April. The timeline suggests that the alleged encouragement from their mother occurred while Kamaurion was already in custody, potentially influencing the actions of his younger brother and associates who remained at large.
Adding another layer to the unfolding legal drama, Reba Bearden herself was later stopped by police while driving with Darreion and another of her sons in the vehicle. During this stop, investigators reportedly found Darreion in possession of a firearm, ammunition, cash, and stolen credit cards. This discovery further solidified the case against the younger Bearden and also led to charges against his mother for harboring a felon. Reba Bearden is scheduled to appear in court this Friday, March 21.
The details of this case have reverberated throughout Milwaukee, raising concerns about the influences on young people and the role of parents in preventing crime. Law enforcement officials have emphasized their commitment to holding all involved parties accountable, highlighting the impact of such crimes on the safety and well-being of the community. The case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences when parental guidance seemingly veers towards the encouragement of illegal activities. As the legal proceedings continue, the community will be closely watching for further developments and hoping for a resolution that addresses the harm caused and potentially provides insights into preventing similar situations in the future. The focus remains on ensuring justice for the victims and understanding the complex dynamics that led to these troubling allegations.