Sentencing set for former deputy convicted in Sonya Massey’s death

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Former Sangamon County Sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson is set to be sentenced on Thursday for the deadly shooting of Sonya Massey.

This case has sparked statewide outrage, legislative change, and renewed scrutiny of police use of force in Illinois.

Grayson was convicted last month of second-degree murder for the July 2024 shooting that killed Massey inside her Springfield home. Prosecutors argued Grayson used unreasonable and excessive force during a late-night response call, while the defense maintained Grayson feared for his safety.

The deadly shooting drew national attention after body-camera video showed Grayson firing his weapon at Massey after she called 911 for a report of a prowler. After the shooting, conversations began about accountability in policing, especially involving mental-health calls and interactions inside private residences.

Long-serving Illinois Public Defender John Rekowski told WAND the sentencing hearing represents a pivotal moment, not only for Grayson, but for public trust in the justice system.

“This is a significant case,” Rekowski said. “It helps define the lines between the police and the civilian population when they interact as to what is acceptable and what is not acceptable. The second important thing that this does is it reinstates confidence of the American public in the court system.”

Grayson’s conviction carries a potential prison sentence of four to 20 years. Rekowski explained that the sentence would require Grayson to serve at least 50 percent of the time imposed.

"Assuming good behavior," he added.

Ahead of sentencing, Grayson’s defense team has filed a post-trial motion requesting a new trial. This is a procedural step, Rekowski said, that is required before any appeal can move forward.

“If you’re going to appeal, you have to raise in the post-trial motion every mistake that you think has been made in the trial,” Rekowski explained, noting the appeal itself must be filed within 30 days of sentencing.

Beyond the courtroom, Massey’s death has already reshaped Illinois law enforcement policy. In the months following the shooting, state lawmakers passed legislation aimed at tightening standards for use of force, strengthening officer accountability, and improving responses to mental-health-related calls. Several agencies have also reviewed training protocols and body-camera policies in response to the case.

Grayson is scheduled to be sentenced on Thursday at 9 a.m. in Sangamon County court.

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