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Police have released bodycam footage showing Sangamon County Deputy Sean Grayson killing Sonya Massey. Massey, who had called 911 to report a possible intruder, was shot in the face by Grayson during a confrontation inside her home.

What Happened: On July 6, 2024, Sonya Massey called 911 to report a suspected intruder at her home in Springfield, Illinois. Two Sangamon County deputies, including Sean Grayson, responded to the call. Inside Massey’s home, Grayson confronted her while she was removing a boiling pot from the stove. Despite her compliance, Grayson threatened to shoot her and subsequently fired three shots, striking Massey in the face. Grayson did not activate his body camera until after the shooting, though another deputy’s camera partially captured the incident.

Deputy arrested: Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser announced that their investigation did not justify Grayson’s use of deadly force, leading to his arrest. Grayson has been charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct. He was denied bail.

Community response: The incident has sparked outrage and protests, with supporters gathering to demand justice for Massey. Nationally-known civil rights attorney Ben Crump is representing Massey’s family. In a statement following the announcement of the officer’s arrest, he said, “Today marks an important milestone in the pursuit of justice for Sonya Massey’s family. While nothing can undo the heinous actions of this officer, we hope the scales of justice will continue to hold him accountable and we will demand transparency at every step.”

More on the deputy: Sean Grayson was fired from the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office following the incident. He worked for six different law enforcement agencies over the past four years.

Governor responds: Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker said, “This does not reflect on all police officers. This particular sheriff’s deputy, committed a crime, and he’s been indicted for it. Appropriately so, should be convicted to the fullest extent, that we can. And, and I think that the state’s attorney in Sangamon County acted, completely appropriately here and has been working with the family, talking to the family and assisting in moving us all forward.”