Former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, the maximum sentence allowed under Illinois law. The sentencing was handed down Thursday, closing a case that sparked national outrage and renewed conversations about police use of force and accountability.
Grayson was convicted of second-degree murder in the July 6, 2024 shooting, which occurred inside Massey’s Springfield home after she called 911 seeking help. Body-camera footage from the incident showed a tense exchange that escalated moments before Grayson fired his weapon, killing the 36-year-old. Prosecutors argued the shooting was unjustified, while the defense claimed Grayson believed he was acting in self-defense — a claim the jury ultimately rejected at the highest level allowed under the conviction.
According to CBS, during the sentencing hearing, Grayson addressed the court and admitted fault, stating, “I was very unprofessional that night.” Prosecutors argued the shooting was unjustified, while the defense claimed Grayson believed he was acting in self-defense — a claim the jury ultimately rejected by imposing the maximum sentence allowed under the conviction.
Members of Massey’s family gave emotional statements in court, describing the irreversible loss and trauma caused by her death. The case led to nationwide protests, a federal civil rights investigation, and a $10 million settlement between Massey’s family and Sangamon County.
