Sheriff’s Deputy Who Shot and Killed Sonya Massey Had Spotty Employment History

The shocking video of an Illinois sheriff’s deputy shooting Sonya Massey, an African American woman, in the face has led to strong reactions from the White House to the neighborhood where Massey lived.

“When we call for help, all of us as Americans – regardless of who we are or where we live – should be able to do so without fearing for our lives,” President Joe Biden said. “Sonya’s death at the hands of a responding officer reminds us that all too often Black Americans face fears for their safety in ways many of the rest of us do not.”

Massey, who was a 36-year-old mother of two, called police on July 6 to report a “prowler” around her home near Springfield, Illinois. 30-year-old Sean Grayson and another sheriff’s deputy arrived to investigate. After walking around the property, Grayson, Massey and the other deputy went into her home where she looked for her identification.

The officers pointed out a pot of boiling water, and Massey went to the stove to turn it off. During an exchange of words, Massey said she “rebuked Grayson in the name of Jesus,” and he said, “You had better not,” or he would “shoot her in the face.” Seconds later, Grayson shot Massey twice in the face, killing her.

His partner moved to render aid, but Grayson was dismissive of the effort, saying, “Nah, she’s done. You can go get it but that’s a headshot.”

The Sangamon County Sheriff’s Department fired Grayson two weeks after the shooting and released a statement on Facebook.

The Illinois State Attorney moved swiftly to prosecute Grayson for the shooting, charging him with three counts of first-degree murder, aggravated battery and official misconduct.

Grayson had held four law enforcement jobs in six years. Before he worked as a police officer, he served two years in the Army as a mechanic, had no deployments and left as a private first class. According to court documents, Grayson twice pleaded guilty to DWI before he started working in law enforcement.

Attorney Ben Crump is representing Massey’s family. “This is a step toward justice for Sonya’s loved ones, especially her children, who have endured unimaginable pain and suffering since they were notified of this tragedy. We remain committed to uncovering the truth of what happened and identifying the failures that allowed this tragic death to occur.”

Massey’s family say she suffered from some mental health issues. They say she was beloved. and enjoyed spending time with family.

Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has spoken with the family.