An Illinois sheriff’s deputy, Sean Grayson, has been indicted on multiple charges in connection with the shooting death of Sonya Massey, a Springfield woman who called 911 to report a possible intruder. Grayson faces three counts of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct, according to Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser.
Grayson pleaded not guilty at his arraignment and was denied pretrial release. He was also fired from the Sangamon County Sheriff’s department this week, with Sheriff Jack Campbell stating that Grayson’s actions did not align with department standards or training.
On July 6, deputies responded to Massey’s residence around 12:50 a.m. for a possible prowler. By 1:21 a.m., shots were fired, and Massey was struck. Deputies administered first aid, and Massey was transported to St. John’s Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The Illinois State Police investigated the shooting and found Grayson’s use of deadly force unjustified.
Charging documents allege that Grayson shot Massey in the face after aggressively yelling at her to put down a pot of boiling water. He then allegedly discouraged his partner from providing medical aid. The other deputy, however, rendered aid until paramedics arrived. Grayson activated his body-camera only after the shooting, while his partner had activated his upon arrival.
Massey’s family attorney, Ben Crump, called Grayson’s indictment a step toward justice, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed his heartbreak and outrage over the incident, highlighting the failure to protect Massey, who had sought help from law enforcement.
The Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office plans to release the body camera footage by July 22.
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