DOJ Investigates Fatal Shooting Of Sonya Massey & Former Deputy Sean Grayson’s Troubling History

The U.S. Department of Justice announced on Tuesday that it is “assessing the circumstances” surrounding the tragic fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, an unarmed Black woman, by a Sangamon County Sheriff’s deputy.

This announcement follows a wave of public outcry and a call for justice led by renowned civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, who represents Massey’s family.

The Incident

On the early morning of July 6, Sonya Massey, 36, made a 911 call reporting a prowler outside her home.

Approximately 30 minutes later, deputies arrived on the scene, leading to a series of events that ended with Massey being fatally shot.

The body camera footage, released on Monday, reveals a deeply troubling sequence of actions by the deputies involved.

The Body Camera Footage

The video shows deputies checking Sonya’s house for intruders before entering.

Massey, dressed in her nightclothes, asked if she could remove a pot from the stove.

During this interaction, Sonya Massey uttered, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.”

Sean Grayson, the deputy involved, then threatened to shoot her in the face and drew his weapon.

Despite Sonya’s attempts to comply, including dropping below the kitchen counter with her hands raised and apologizing, Grayson fired three shots, including a fatal one to her head.

Sean Grayson’s Troubling Record

Sean Grayson, 30, was indicted for first-degree murder last week and has since been detained and fired from the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office.

However, Grayson’s troubling history extends far beyond this recent incident.

Grayson first became a police officer in 2020, shortly after his driver’s license was reinstated following a suspension for driving under the influence.

His initial employment in law enforcement was with the Pawnee Police Department, despite his military discharge in 2016 and a checkered job history, including roles as a gym worker, landscaper, and security guard.

A Pattern of Misconduct

Grayson’s criminal record is extensive.

In 2015, he was arrested for DUI, during which he was found with a firearm and marijuana.

He pleaded guilty and was fined and placed on court supervision.

In 2016, Grayson faced another DUI charge, refusing a breathalyzer and exhibiting disrespectful behavior towards the arresting officer.

Despite these incidents, Grayson managed to secure various part-time law enforcement positions, including with the Virden, Kincaid, and Auburn Police Departments.

Public and Official Reactions

The shooting has garnered national attention, with comments from President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton have also met with Massey’s family.

At a news conference on Tuesday, Crump and Sonya Massey’s family members expressed their grief and frustration, highlighting discrepancies in the information they received about Massey’s death.

Benjamin Crump’s Statement

Benjamin Crump emphasized the broader implications of this tragedy, stating, “It is trying to put yourself in their shoes and their neighbors’ shoes. I know it’s hard for some people to even fathom it, but it’s a reality for most people of color, especially black people in America. We think about this every day that but by the grace of God, it could be your mama next or your daughter or your son.”

Conclusion

As the DOJ continues its investigation, the case of Sonya Massey underscores the urgent need for police reform and accountability.

Sean Grayson’s history of misconduct and the circumstances surrounding Massey’s death highlight systemic issues that demand comprehensive solutions to prevent future tragedies.

My sincerest condolences and continued prayers for the Massey family as we fight for the justice Sonya deserves.

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