Introduction
A former Illinois sheriff’s deputy pleaded not guilty to murder on Thursday, following his arrest and charges in the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman, during a call for help at her Springfield home.
Shooting Details
Sean Grayson, 30, fired three shots, hitting Massey once in the face as she ducked for cover behind a kitchen counter. The incident occurred after a verbal exchange about a pot on the stove. Massey had called the police regarding a suspected intruder in her home.
Family’s Statement
Massey, a mother of two teenagers, had sought help for a suspected prowler. Ben Crump, the civil rights lawyer representing the family, emphasized the need for justice and transparency in the case.
Charges and Indictment
Grayson, who is white, faces five charges, including three counts of first-degree murder, one count of aggravated battery, and one count of official misconduct. He was arraigned in Illinois’ Seventh Judicial Circuit Court on Thursday and pled not guilty to all charges. He is currently jailed until his next court date on August 26.
Body-Camera Footage
The family has viewed the body-camera footage, which officials plan to release on Monday with minimal redactions. The footage reveals Grayson threatening Massey, prompting her to apologize and duck for cover before he opened fire. Grayson did not render aid and discouraged his partner from doing so. Massey was pronounced dead at St. John’s Hospital.
