Pritzker, Sangamon Co. officials speak out on deputy’s shooting charges

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — Multiple Illinois state and Sangamon County officials are speaking out following the most recent development in the investigation into Sonya Massey’s death.

On July 6, Massey called 911 to respond to a “prowler” near her home. Deputies were dispatched to her residence and later reported there was a deputy-involved shooting where Massey had been shot. Massey was later pronounced dead at a Springfield hospital.

After two weeks of investigating, Deputy Sean Grayson of the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office was charged for the murder of Massey. It was determined that Grayson’s use of deadly force was not justified, and he was indicted by a Sangamon County grand jury for first-degree murder.

Grayson is now in custody and has since been fired from the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office.

Following Grayson’s indictment, Governor J.B. Pritzker and Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton each released statements in response:

Sonya Massey was concerned for her safety and called law enforcement to her home for protection. Like all Illinoisans, she deserved that protection. Instead, innocent and unarmed, she was gunned down by an officer of the law. My heart breaks for Sonyas children, for her family and friends and for all who knew and loved her, and I am enraged that another innocent black woman had her life taken from her at the hands of a police officer. I’m grateful to the Springfield States Attorney’s office for bringing the appropriate charges in this case. May Sonya Massey`s memory be a blessing, and may it fuel our work to build a system of justice in this country that truly protects all of its citizens.”

Governor J.B. Pritzker

At a Thursday press conference, reporters also asked him for his response and his reaction to the investigation process.

He commended the Illinois State Police and is holding the deputy accountable. He’s proud of the work ISP has done.

But, the governor is also extending his heart to the Massey family. He described it all as a “devasting tragedy” and said it happens far too often.

“This does not reflect on all police officers,” he said. “This particular sheriff’s deputy committed a crime. He’s been indicted for it appropriately so. He should be convicted to the fullest extent that we can.”

Sonya Massey’s life mattered, and my heart aches for her loved ones, especially her children, during this unimaginably difficult time.

Her final moments are another haunting demonstration of a system that failed to protect and serve. The emotions — pain, anger, and fear — washing over our community are both valid and understandable.

It is unconscionable that a call for help would result in such a tragic and preventable loss of life. The announcement of charges by the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office is a first step toward accountability.

May we all speak the name of Sonya Massey out loud and with clarity. May it serve as a way to both honor her and sustain us in the ongoing fight for the safety and justice we all deserve.

I`m sending love and light to all who knew her and continue to love her.

Sonya Massey should be alive today.”

Lieutenant Governor Julina Stratton

Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) also addressed the shooting and indictment, saying:

The actions taken by this officer were unjustified and reprehensible. Incidents like this erode public trust in those who are called to protect the community. This never should have happened.

I stand with the Massey family and my community as we mourn the untimely and unjust loss of Sonya. Thoughts and prayers are not enough – we need change.

Senator Doris Turner

Andy Van Meter, the Chairman of the Sangamon County Board, also released a statement:

Sonya Massey’s murder is a tragedy that reverberates in multiple dimensions. We are powerless to right this wrong. But we can seek justice for the victim and for the community. I have the highest degree of confidence that Sheriff Jack Campbell and States Attorney John Milhiser will do their utmost to achieve the community`s collective will that justice be done.

We must not let the tragic decision of one individual besmirch our highly trained and dedicated law enforcement officers. We must redouble our efforts to guard against the recurrence of such a tragedy.

Andy Van Meter

Grayson’s first court date is Thursday, July 18. Body camera footage from the incident will be released at 10 a.m. on Monday.

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