Ex-Deputy Admits He Opted For Gun Over Taser In Sonya Massey Shooting

October 27, 2025

Former Illinois sheriff's deputy Sean Grayson testified in court about his decision to fatally shoot 36-year-old Sonya Massey in her Springfield home after she called police about a suspected prowler in July. Grayson claimed he chose to use his firearm instead of his stun gun because he doubted the taser would work effectively through Massey's clothing, and he interpreted her religious statement "I rebuke you in the name of Jesus" as a threat while she held a pot of boiling water. Prosecutors presented evidence that Grayson's official report omitted key details captured on body camera footage, including profane threats he made before shooting, and expert witnesses testified that he faced no credible threat.

Who is affected

Sonya Massey (deceased victim)
Sean Grayson (former deputy facing criminal charges)
Deputy Dawson Farley (Grayson's partner who responded to the call)
Massey's family members
The Springfield, Illinois community
The Black community more broadly

What action is being taken

Grayson is standing trial and testifying in court
Prosecutors are presenting evidence and arguing their case against Grayson
Defense attorneys are presenting arguments and expert witnesses on Grayson's behalf
Expert witnesses for both sides are providing testimony

Why it matters

This case highlights critical issues surrounding police use of force, particularly against Black individuals in their own homes who called for help. It raises important questions about police training, threat assessment, de-escalation practices, and accountability when officers' actions result in unnecessary deaths. The case also illustrates concerns about accurate police reporting and the essential role of body camera footage in providing transparent documentation of officer conduct during encounters with civilians.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle