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Sonya Massey murder: Illinois Supreme Court rules Sean Grayson to remain jailed, attorneys say
The Illinois Supreme Court has ruled that former deputy Sean Grayson will remain in jail pending trial for the shooting death of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman killed in her home after calling 911.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - The Illinois Supreme Court has ruled that former deputy Sean Grayson will remain in jail pending trial for the shooting death of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman killed in her home after calling 911.
The decision overturns a previous appellate court ruling that found Grayson’s pretrial detention improper and ordered a hearing to determine conditions for his release.
The appellate court had criticized prosecutors for failing to present sufficient evidence that Grayson posed a danger to the community if released.
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Sonya Massey murder: Illinois police bodycam video shows fatal shooting
The Illinois State Police released video on Monday of police entering the home of a woman who called 911 for help and the violent scene that ensued when a sheriff's deputy shot her in the face.
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump and co-counsel Antonio Romanucci, representing Massey’s family, welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision. In a statement, they called it "a relief for Sonya Massey’s family" and emphasized the importance of prioritizing public safety and holding law enforcement accountable.
"Sonya’s family has shown incredible resilience in their pursuit of justice for her senseless killing. This decision affirms their efforts and underscores the importance of addressing police violence," the statement read.
Sonya Massey and Sean Grayson | Provided
Grayson, 30, faces first-degree murder charges in the July 6 shooting, which occurred after Massey called 911 to report a suspected prowler. During the police visit, an interaction in her living room escalated when Grayson fired three shots, killing her.
The case has drawn national attention and sparked outrage, seen as part of a broader pattern of police violence against Black Americans. It has also led to a Justice Department investigation and the resignation of Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell, who had hired Grayson.