An Illinois sheriff's deputy has been charged with murder after the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old woman who called 911 about a prowler. Deputy Sean Grayson was arrested for first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct.
Massey was killed in her Springfield home around 12:50 a.m. on July 6, when Sangamon County deputies responded to her call. The incident was reviewed, and officials determined that Grayson's use of deadly force was unjustified. Massey died from a gunshot wound to the head, according to preliminary autopsy findings.
The case was expedited and presented to a grand jury, resulting in a five-count indictment. Grayson, who has been fired from the sheriff's office, was in custody awaiting his court appearance. Sheriff Jack Campbell stated that Grayson's actions did not align with their training or standards and emphasized the importance of accountability. The community, including Massey's mother and civil rights attorney Ben Crump, has protested the incident, with Crump highlighting Massey's unarmed status.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed his outrage, condemning the shooting and calling for protection for all residents. Massey's family has viewed the body camera footage, which will be publicly released with some redactions.
Link: NBCNews
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