The murder trial of former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson commenced this week, as he faces charges for the 2024 fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a case that has drawn national attention to police conduct and reform.
Jury selection began on October 20, 2025, in Peoria, Illinois, after the case was moved from Sangamon County due to extensive media coverage. Grayson is charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct in the death of Sonya Massey on July 6, 2024. The trial marks a significant moment in the ongoing discourse about police accountability and use of force, with proceedings expected to span several days.
Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman, called 911 for help regarding a possible prowler at her Springfield home. Body camera footage released by Illinois State Police shows the interaction, where Massey expressed fear, saying ‘Please, don’t hurt me,’ and Grayson responded before the shooting occurred. The footage captures the tense moments leading up to the fatal incident, highlighting the circumstances that led to Massey’s death.
An autopsy confirmed Massey died from a gunshot wound to the head, ruled a homicide. Grayson claimed he feared for his life during the encounter, but prosecutors argue the use of force was unjustified. The body camera video shows Massey ducking behind a counter and covering her face with an oven mitt before Grayson shot her three times in the face, actions that have been scrutinized in pre-trial hearings.
Grayson has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and his attorney confirmed the plea. Pre-trial motions have addressed the admissibility of evidence, including the body camera footage. Grayson was fired from the sheriff’s office after being indicted, and he has been held in custody ahead of the trial, with appeals regarding his pretrial release due to health issues.
Prior to his law enforcement career, Grayson was discharged from the U.S. Army for misconduct and had previous DUI convictions. He has been diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer, leading to legal debates over his custody conditions, but he remains incarcerated as the trial proceeds, adding a layer of complexity to the case.
The case prompted Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to sign a police reform bill in August 2025, named after Massey, which strengthens hiring practices for law enforcement agencies. Massey’s family received a $10 million settlement, and the trial is seen as a pivotal test for accountability in police-involved shootings, reflecting broader societal calls for change.
The trial is expected to continue with witness testimonies and evidence presentation over the coming days. The outcome could have broader implications for similar cases nationwide, emphasizing the need for transparency and justice in law enforcement interactions, and will be closely watched by advocates and officials alike.