"While we believe Grayson's actions deserved a first-degree conviction, today's verdict is still a measure of justice for Sonya Massey."
"Grayson, 31, was charged with first-degree murder, but the jury was given the option of considering second-degree murder, which can apply when a defendant faces a "serious provocation" or believes their action is justified even if that belief is unreasonable."
"It showed Massey, who struggled with mental health issues, telling the officers, "Don't hurt me," and repeating, "Please God.""
A jury convicted Sangamon County deputy Sean Grayson of second-degree murder in the July 6, 2024, shooting death of 36-year-old Sonya Massey, who had called 911 to report a prowler. Grayson faces up to 20 years in prison or possible probation after being acquitted of first-degree murder, which carries a 45-years-to-life penalty. Prosecutors relied in part on body camera footage from another deputy showing Massey pleading, "Don't hurt me," and "Please God." Grayson said he fired fearing she would scald him with hot water. The case prompted changes to Illinois law on law-enforcement candidate transparency and raised questions about shootings of Black people in their homes. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 29.
Read at ABC7 New York
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