Ben Crump responds to the release of 911 calls in Sonya Massey case

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Civil rights and personal injury attorney Ben Crump is responding to the release of 911 calls in the Sonya Massey case.

Massey was shot and killed in her own home on July 6 by a now former Sangamon County Sheriff's Deputy after calling to report a possible prowler near her home in Springfield.

Deputy Sean Grayson is now indicted and charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct.

Attorney Crump issued the following statement:

"The 911 calls capture the heartbreaking pleas of Sonya's mother who desperately sought help for her daughter while expressing her deep fears about the potential for violence at the hands of the police. Despite these warnings, Sonya, a woman struggling with her mental health, was met with deadly force in her own home.

“Sonya needed compassion and support. Instead, she was met with a gunshot to the face by a deputy whose actions have now led to charges of first-degree murder. The failure to provide the appropriate response to a mental health crisis has resulted in an irreversible loss for the Massey family and underscores a systemic issue that must be addressed.

“This case is a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive police reform and better training for handling mental health crises. No family should ever have to endure such a preventable tragedy. We will continue to fight for justice for the Massey family, as well as systemic change to ensure that no other family has to suffer the pain and loss that the Massey family is experiencing."