Sangamon County Settles Sonya Massey Case for $10 Million

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Sangamon County officials have reached a settlement agreement of $10 million with the family of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman shot and killed by a sheriff’s deputy in her home last summer. The settlement, approved by the Sangamon County Board, follows nearly a year of scrutiny and public outcry over the fatal incident.

Massey was killed on July 6, 2024, after calling 911 to report a possible prowler near her home. Deputy Sean Grayson, who responded to her call, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with her death. The settlement aims to prevent a lengthy lawsuit against the county while providing financial support to Massey’s two children.

County Administrator Brian McFadden stated the settlement would be funded through existing reserves, emphasizing that taxpayers will not face a tax hike or cuts to essential services. “To pay for this particular settlement, we will not be raising taxes, we will not be issuing additional debt, we will not be cutting services,” McFadden said.

Former Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell, who hired Grayson, resigned following the shooting amid growing demands for accountability. Campbell faced criticism for retaining Grayson, who had prior disciplinary issues at multiple law enforcement agencies.

Following the tragic incident, the community has engaged in discussions regarding police practices, aiming to address systemic racism and improve responses to mental health crises. A citizens’ commission was established to evaluate law enforcement conduct and propose reforms.

Federal investigations did not find discriminatory practices in the sheriff’s office but highlighted weaknesses in the handling of mental health situations. In an effort to enhance community trust, the county has entered into a memorandum with the U.S. Department of Justice, committing to policy improvements.

The shooting sparked national attention as another instance of police violence against vulnerable individuals seeking help. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Massey’s family, asserted that the settlement marks a significant step toward justice. During a virtual press conference on what would have been Massey’s 37th birthday, Crump described the settlement as “historic.” He stressed the family’s desire for broader changes to prevent future tragedies.

Massey’s mother had communicated concerns to dispatchers regarding her daughter’s safety prior to the police arrival. In a tragic confrontation shortly after the deputies entered Massey’s home, Grayson drew his weapon, and during a heated exchange, he shot Massey three times. Eyewitnesses and the family’s attorney have described the shooting as an unnecessary escalation of force.

As the family looks to the future, they are committed to holding responsible parties accountable and advocating for reform in law enforcement practices. Attorney Antonio Romanucci, another representative for Massey’s family, affirmed, “We want civil accountability, criminal culpability, and we want legislative changes.”

The settlement follows a growing list of police encounters resulting in the deaths of Black individuals in their homes, fueling ongoing discussions about racial justice and policing reforms in communities across the country.