Nationwide — Former Illinois sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson was sentenced Thursday to 20 years in prison for the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black mother of two. Grayson now faces the maximum sentence allowed under Illinois law after his conviction for second-degree murder in Massey’s 2024 death.
Judge Ryan Cadigan of the 7th Judicial Circuit Court of Illinois said the punishment was meant to deter what he described as “that bit of unreasonable rage.” In addition to the prison term, the judge ordered Grayson to serve two years of supervised probation once he is released.
Grayson addressed the court during sentencing and admitted wrongdoing for the first time since the shooting. He said he made “terrible decisions” the night Massey called 911 to report a possible prowler outside her home.
“I was very unprofessional that night,” Grayson said, according to NBC News. “She didn’t deserve to be yelled and cussed at and called names. Nobody deserves that.”
Massey’s children also spoke in court, sharing how their mother’s death changed their lives. Her daughter, Summer Massey, said the loss left lasting trauma and questioned whether Grayson truly grasped the harm he caused. “It does not feel like he truly understands or cares about the damage he has caused,” she said.
Outside the courtroom, supporters gathered as the sentence was announced. Protesters chanted, “Say her name: Sonya Massey,” while family members inside reacted with raised fists and quiet relief after the ruling.
As the sentence was announced, supporters gathered outside the courthouse chanting, “Say her name: Sonya Massey.” Inside, some family members reacted with raised fists and quiet relief following the ruling.
The case began in July 2024 after Massey called police for help. Prosecutors said she followed commands before Grayson fired his weapon, while the defense argued she escalated the situation. Jurors deliberated for nearly 12 hours before finding Grayson guilty of second-degree murder.
Under Illinois law, Grayson’s sentence falls within a four-to-20-year range and allows the possibility of earning credit for good behavior. Massey’s family has said they continue to seek accountability and are calling for federal civil rights charges in the case.