Ex-deputy sentenced to 20 years in prison for killing Sonya Massey
(The Center Square) – A former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for fatally shooting Sonya Massey at her Springfield home in July 2024.
A jury convicted Sean Grayson of second-degree murder Oct. 29. On Thursday morning in Springfield, Judge Ryan Cadigan handed down the maximum allowed sentence for Grayson’s crime.
In a statement from the Massey Commission for Sangamon County, Sonya’s cousin, Sontae Massey, said Sonya’s death would follow her for the rest of her life.
“It is a permanent reminder of what happens when power is exercised without humanity, when a life is treated as disposable,” Sontae Massey stated.
The trial was in Peoria after Grayson’s legal team argued local news coverage of Massey’s death would make it impossible to find an impartial jury.
In the early morning hours of July 6, 2024, Massey called police about a suspected prowler. Two Sangamon County Sheriff deputies arrived on the scene. Body camera footage released by Illinois State Police showed Grayson confronting Massey and threatening to shoot her in the face.
Massey was then shot in the head.
Greg Bishop contributed to this story.
Slight Chance Rain Showers then Slight Chance Showers And Thunderstorms
Latest News Stories
Stephen Colbert returns to community show after final ‘Late Show’ appearance
Illinois dual office holding debate intensifies amid Calumet funding, ethics concerns
School choice Yass Prize awards continue, $20M worth of grants awarded nationwide
U.S. sees progress in Iran talks, Tehran says no deal yet
Frankfort Fire District Approves $260,517.79 in Bills, Reappoints Fire Commissioner Dauber
Frankfort Park District Updates Vehicle Policy on Take-Home Use
Frankfort Approves $1.1 Million in Fleet Upgrades and Sewer Infrastructure Contracts
Everyday Economics: History doesn’t repeat, but the Fed Is hearing an echo
Illinois DHS appointment sparks backlash over alleged voter registration mailer practices
Arctic defense begins in Galveston after Memorial Day
Illinois Quick Hits: Pritzker urges megaprojects support for Bears
Frankfort School District 157-C Approves New Honors Criteria, Hires Student Services Director at April Meeting
