Summary
A former Illinois deputy sheriff, Sean Grayson, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for the 2024 shooting death of Sonya Massey. The incident led to protests and changes in police training and hiring practices. Grayson was convicted of second-degree murder but initially faced charges of first-degree murder.
Key Facts
- Grayson shot 36-year-old Sonya Massey in Springfield, Illinois, in 2024, after she called police to her home.
- Grayson received a 20-year prison sentence for second-degree murder.
- Massey had called the police because she feared there was a prowler outside her home.
- During the incident, Grayson opened fire, hitting Massey three times after she picked up a hot pot.
- Massey’s death led to protests and a wider discussion on police conduct towards Black residents.
- The case prompted a U.S. Justice Department inquiry and new police de-escalation training requirements.
- The Sangamon County introduced a law mandating full background checks for law enforcement job applicants, known as the Sonya Massey Act.
