Sangamon County officials have agreed to a $10 million settlement with the family of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old woman fatally shot by a sheriff’s deputy in her own home last year.
Massey had called 911 on July 6th, 2024, to report a possible prowler outside her Woodside Township, Illinois residence. Minutes later, Deputy Grayson shot her in her kitchen as she checked on a pot of boiling water, declaring, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.”
Grayson later claimed he felt threatened, but he was fired and charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery, and official misconduct. He remains in jail, pleading not guilty while seeking release before trial.
Sangamon County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter emphasized the county’s commitment to change, stating:
“This settlement is part of our efforts to address this tragic death… We remain committed to strengthening policies to ensure tragedies like this never happen again,” he stated.
The settlement must be approved by the Sangamon County Board, but questions remain about funding. Board member Sam Cahnman expressed concerns:
“There’s only $1.5 million in our settlement fund. How we’ll afford $10 million is unclear,” he added.
Meanwhile, Massey’s family continues their fight for justice. Her son, Malachi Hill-Massey, vowed, “We’re going to get justice for sure.”
On February 12th, Massey’s birthday, her family will hold a demonstration at the Illinois State Capitol.
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