Illinois Officials Respond to Sean Grayson Verdict...

ILLINOIS (WCIA) — In a significant turn of events, a jury on Wednesday convicted former Sangamon County deputy Sean Grayson of second-degree murder for the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey. The verdict elicited reactions from leaders across Illinois.

In 2024, in response to Massey’s tragic death, Sangamon County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter and Democratic State Senator Doris Turner established the Massey Commission. This body was tasked with analyzing, discussing, and recommending policy reforms aimed at preventing similar incidents at both the local and state levels.

Following the jury’s decision, the commission issued a statement that described the verdict as offering “a breath of hope and a long-delayed whisper of justice.”

Massey family reacts to Sean Grayson verdict

“For our community, this moment allows us to pause, to absorb the heavy air of truth, and finally release the breath we’ve held for so long,” the commission expressed in a press release. “Yet, even this verdict cannot heal the wound left by the loss of Sonya Massey—a cherished mother, daughter, and community member. While justice is crucial, it cannot restore a lost life. For some, this decision brings solace as the truth is affirmed. For others, it reopens old wounds, highlighting the prolonged journey toward true safety and dignity.”

The commission emphasized their shared mourning with the Massey family and reiterated their commitment to pursuing justice and accountability.

Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher also shared a statement about the verdict. Buscher said that the City of Springfield stands with everyone who is grieving. She added that the murder of Sonya Massey is a tragedy, and acknowledged that no words can ease this kind of pain.

“She called 911 seeking help and compassion and instead lost her life in her own home,” Buscher said. “I understand that many in our community may have strong feelings about this outcome. The City of Springfield and our Police Department remain committed to maintaining public trust, transparency, and accountability in all interactions with the residents we serve. We hold ourselves to the highest standards and will continue to review our own policies and training to ensure every person is treated with dignity and respect.”

Civil rights lawyer Ben Crump and co-counsel Antonio Romanucci were also quick to give their thoughts following the verdict.

While we believe Grayson’s actions deserved a first-degree conviction, today’s verdict is still a measure of justice for Sonya Massey. Accountability has begun, and we now hope the court will impose a meaningful sentence that reflects the severity of these crimes and the life that was lost. We will continue to fight for Sonya’s family and for reforms that protect everyone from unlawful use of force.

The family extends deep gratitude to Sangamon County State’s Attorney John C. Milhiser and his entire office. They handled the case with professionalism, transparency, and compassion. Prosecuting a police officer is never easy but this team did it with courage and integrity.

Ben Crump and Antonio Romanucci

Here’s what some other lawmakers and officials throughout Illinois had to say about the verdict:

State Sen. Doris Turner of Springfield

“While nothing will bring Sonya back, the jury has spoken. Today’s verdict shows that no one is above the law.

I stand with the Massey family and my community as we continue to mourn the unjust loss of Sonya. Since Sonya’s murder, I’ve been committed to – and will continue to – put in the work to make necessary changes to ensure our community has trust in those who have taken the oath to protect and serve.”

State Rep. Carol Ammons

“The legal system has now affirmed what all of us know: Sonya Massey was murdered by a sheriff’s deputy.

While nothing can bring Sonya back to her friends and family, the accountability her killer will now face is a step towards justice.

Today reminds us of the immense loss felt by all who loved Sonya. I am thinking of the Massey Family and all those impacted by her loss.”

Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton

“Say her name: Sonya Massey.

Sonya Massey’s life mattered, and she should be alive today. Though nothing we ever say or do will bring Sonya back, today’s verdict is one step closer on the long path towards justice.

Her final moments were a devastating example of how a system meant to protect and serve can fail, but the accountability we saw today is a reminder to keep hope alive for a world where tragedies like Sonya’s no longer occur.

I offer my love and continuing prayers to her mother Donna, and Sonya’s entire family as they relive the trauma of her passing yet remain determined to enact change.

May we speak her name and remember her for the fullness of her life: Sonya Massey will not be forgotten.”

Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski

“While nothing can bring Sonya Massey back, I am grateful that this trial has resulted in a measure of justice for her and her family.”

A jury convicted Grayson of second-degree murder, but acquitted him of first-degree murder, after a week of testimony and 11 hours of deliberations across two days. Sentencing has been scheduled for January 29 in Sangamon County.

The trial took place about one year and three months after Massey called 911 to report that she believed someone was trying to break into her home. In the time since, the sheriff of Sangamon County retired, the Massey family and the county agreed to a $10 million settlement and Governor JB Pritzker signed Sonya Massey’s law, requiring more transparency when hiring at Illinois law enforcement agencies.

The full text of the law can be found here.

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