Springfield, IL — A substantial $10 million settlement has been reached between Sangamon County officials and the family of Sonya Massey, a Black woman who was shot and killed in her home by a former sheriff’s deputy. The incident occurred nearly a year ago when Massey, a 36-year-old mother of two, sought assistance for what she believed was a prowler.
The resolution with Massey’s family precedes any potential lawsuit linked to the actions of Sean Grayson, the 30-year-old former deputy now facing first-degree murder charges. During a confrontation in Massey’s living room, Grayson discharged his weapon following a brief exchange, resulting in her death.
This incident has reignited discussions on police use of force and the need for substantial reform in law enforcement’s approach to handling incidents involving mental health crises. Following the tragic event, Sangamon County has initiated several measures aimed at addressing the underlying issues exposed by this case. One significant move was the establishment of the Massey Commission, crafted to propose reforms and enhance the community’s access to equitable services, while also rebuilding trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
Former Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell, who hired Grayson, retired in the wake of the incident. In efforts to prevent such tragedies, the county has also engaged with federal authorities to improve training on non-discriminatory policing, mental health interventions, and de-escalation techniques.
Prior to the final approval of the settlement, Sangamon County Board Chair Andy Van Meter underscored in a memo that the payout was an attempt to provide some solace to Massey’s bereaved family, acknowledging that no amount of money could truly compensate for the loss of life. He reiterated the county’s dedication to seeking reforms that might avert similar tragedies in the future.
Massey’s death drew national scrutiny as yet another case of fatal law enforcement interaction under questionable circumstances. Her family has pointedly noted the historical parallel of her demise to her ancestor, William Donnegan—a Black man lynched during Springfield’s 1908 race riots. This gruesome piece of history is part of what led to the founding of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
Massey’s case brought to light the sometimes deadly intersection of mental health issues and policing. In the days before her death, both Massey and her mother made several 911 calls, pleading for help and specifically requesting that officers who might be prejudiced not be sent. The moment that led to Massey’s death escalated from a mundane act of moving a pot from the stove to a fatal shooting, stirring public outcry and calls for justice.
The settlement heralds Massey’s family’s continuous fight against systemic racial injustice and excessive use of force, aspects starkly highlighted by this tragic event. As the community and the nation reflect on this case, there are hopes that substantial and lasting reforms in law enforcement practices can be realized. The family is expected to speak more on these issues at a press conference scheduled to coincide with what would have been Sonya Massey’s 37th birthday.