Trial of former deputy accused of killing Sonya Massey moved out of Sangamon County

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A Sangamon County judge decided the trial for a former Sangamon County deputy accused of shooting and killing Sonya Massey inside her home will move out of the county.

On Tuesday, Grayson was present in court while his attorney argued to move the trial out of Sangamon County. In the motion filed with the court, Grayson's attorney argued that coverage and community engagement in the case "has made it virtually impossible to empanel a fair and impartial jury in Sangamon County."

The judge agreed with Grayson's attorney and decided it was best to move jury selection and the trial out of the county.

His case will now be heard in Peoria County.

John Rekowski, a retired Madison County Public Defender, told WAND News a change of venue motion is not very common, and it's "extraordinary" when the motion is allowed. WAND News spoke with Rekowski about the process involved in changing trial venues.

Grayson was seen on police body camera video shooting and killing Sonya Massey inside her home in July 2024. Massey had called police for help during an apparent mental health crisis.

Grayson is charged with murder and is awaiting trial. He's remained in custody despite repeated attempts by his legal team to have him released before trial. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Grayson is set to return to court April 23.