DOJ investigating Sonya Massey case: Ben Crump

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — Civil rights attorney Ben Crump is speaking in Springfield Tuesday morning to provide an update on Sonya Massey’s case.

He confirmed the Department of Justice is now involved in the investigation.

“We will continue to fight for justice for Sonya Massey,” Crump said.

He also spoke Monday afternoon after Illinois State Police released the body camera footage .

The footage shows the moments after Massey called 911 for reports of a “prowler” when two white deputies from the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office responded to her residence. While moving a pot of hot water from her stove, former Deputy Sean Grayson yelled at her to put it down. Massey said she was sorry and ducked.

Grayson fired three shots, one of which hit the mother of two in the head, ultimately killing her. He also discouraged the other deputy from getting their medical kit when Massey was still breathing.

Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser has charged Grayson with three counts of first-degree murder , along with charges of official misconduct and aggravated battery with a firearm. He pleaded not guilty on all charges.

After the body camera footage was released, Ben Crump hypothesized whether there would be a different outcome for Massey, who is Black, if she was a white woman.

“Black people are still questioning if we’re getting equal justice,” Crump said at the Monday news conference.

Politicians both in Illinois and nationally, including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris , as well as entertainment leaders like Viola Davis and Solange Knowles, all have expressed support for Massey’s loved ones, and stated the Springfield woman should still be alive.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.