Former Deputy convicted of second-degree murder in Sonya Massey’s death

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SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A jury convicted former Illinois sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson on Wednesday of second-degree murder in Sonya Massey’s 2024 shooting.

Massey, a mother of two, called 911 to report a possible prowler near her Springfield home.

Sean Grayson convicted of second-degree murder

Grayson was initially charged with first-degree murder. After nearly 12 hours of deliberation, jurors returned the lesser conviction. He now faces four to 20 years in prison. Under Illinois law, he may be eligible for day-for-day credit, potentially serving only half his sentence.

What happened to Sonya Massey?

Body camera footage captured the fatal encounter, showing Massey calmly speaking with deputies and removing a pot of boiling water from her stove. Grayson then shot her in the face.

During the trial, Grayson testified that he believed Massey was about to throw the water at him. He said her statement—“I rebuke you in the name of Jesus”—felt threatening. He chose not to use his stun gun, citing concerns about its effectiveness.

Civil Lawsuit

In addition to the criminal case, Massey’s family reached a $10 million civil settlement with local authorities. The settlement acknowledged the harm caused and aimed to support Massey’s children and honor her legacy.

Sonya Massey Act

Massey’s death prompted state lawmakers to pass the Sonya Massey Act, which requires stricter background checks for police hires.

Grayson’s sentencing date has not yet been announced.