Former Illinois deputy Sean Grayson in IDOC custody

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Sangamon County Sheriff's Office says former deputy Sean Grayson is now in the custody of the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Grayson was sentenced to 20 years in prison Thursday for killing Sonya Massey inside of her Springfield home in July 2024.

The case drew statewide attention and outrage, prompting renewed scrutiny of police use of force in Illinois and contributing to legislative changes aimed at accountability and reform.

During Thursday’s sentencing hearing, Grayson’s attorney argued for a lesser sentence, citing serious health concerns. The defense told the court that Grayson has been diagnosed with advanced-stage cancer, including stage 3 colon cancer that has since progressed to stage 4, with cancer also found in his liver, lungs, and rectum.

Despite those arguments, the judge imposed the 20-year sentence.

Grayson will serve a two-year mandatory supervised release period after his prison sentence ends. He also received credit for time served.

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