A former Sangamon County sheriff's deputy, Sean Grayson, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for the second-degree murder of Sonya Massey. The sentencing, which includes a two-year period of supervised release, follows his conviction in October 2025 related to the fatal shooting on July 6, 2024, in Springfield, Illinois. Judge Ryan Cadagin of the 7th Judicial Circuit Court imposed the maximum penalty for the charge, citing the necessity of deterrence.
Sentencing Details
On Thursday, Sean Grayson received a 20-year prison sentence for the second-degree murder of Sonya Massey. The sentence, delivered by Judge Ryan Cadagin, also includes two years of supervised release and credit for time already served. Prosecutors had indicated that the potential sentence for second-degree murder ranged from four to 20 years in prison or probation.
Sangamon County State's Attorney John Milhiser had requested the maximum 20-year sentence, emphasizing its importance in deterring similar crimes.
Judge Cadagin stated the maximum sentence was imposed to deter "unreasonable rage."
Under Illinois state law, Grayson may be eligible for day-for-day credit for good behavior, which could potentially reduce his time served to half of the sentence.
Trial and Conviction Background
Grayson's conviction for second-degree murder occurred in October 2025, following a seven-day trial where he had initially been charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct. He pleaded not guilty to all initial charges.
During the trial, the jury was given the option to consider the lesser charge of second-degree murder.
Jurors deliberated for nearly 12 hours after closing arguments before delivering the verdict.
A conviction for first-degree murder would have carried a sentence of 45 years to life, without the same eligibility for good behavior credit.
The Incident: July 6, 2024
The fatal shooting of Sonya Massey took place on July 6, 2024, at her home in Springfield, Illinois. Body camera footage from the incident shows Deputy Grayson inside Massey's residence, instructing her to "Walk away from your hot steaming water." The video depicts Massey pouring water into a sink and repeating the deputy's phrase before stating, "I rebuke you in the name of Jesus." Grayson then threatened to shoot her. Massey subsequently apologized, ducked behind a counter, and covered her face.
As she briefly rose, Grayson discharged his firearm three times, striking her in the face.
During his testimony, Grayson stated he believed Massey intended to throw scalding water on him and that he felt scared. An assistant state attorney noted that Massey's final words before being shot were, "I'm sorry." The prosecution asserted that Massey had complied with an order to drop the pot of water, while the defense maintained that Massey escalated the situation.
Defendant's Statements and Defense Arguments
Before the sentencing hearing, Sean Grayson apologized to the Massey family, stating, "I wish there was something I could do to bring her back. I wish this didn't happen."
He acknowledged making "terrible decisions" and freezing on the night of the incident, also describing his conduct as "very unprofessional." This admission contrasted with his prior testimony, where he had described Massey’s behavior as threatening.
Defense attorney Mark Wykoff argued against a sentence of imprisonment, citing Grayson’s worsening Stage 4 colon and rectal cancer, which has metastasized to his liver and lungs. Wykoff also contended that the sentencing should be confined to crimes committed within Sangamon County.
Pre-Sentencing Legal Motions
Ahead of the sentencing, Judge Cadagin denied Grayson's request for a new trial.
Grayson's attorneys had filed a motion in December 2025, alleging "erroneous rulings" and arguing that the court had "incorrectly" focused on Grayson's obligations as an officer.
They also contended that the body camera video showing Grayson's actions after the shooting should not have been admitted as evidence during the trial. Sangamon County State's Attorney John Milhiser's office had filed a motion to deny the new trial request.
Victim's Family and Community Impact
Sonya Massey's daughter, Summer Massey, and son, Malachi Hill Massey, delivered victim impact statements during the sentencing hearing. Summer Massey expressed gratitude for the maximum sentence but stated it was "not enough," while Malachi Hill Massey spoke of his pain.
Donna Massey, Sonya's mother, delivered a victim impact statement expressing fear of calling the police and addressed Grayson with the words Sonya Massey used before her death: "Sean Grayson, I rebuke you in the name of Jesus."
Sonya's cousin, Sontae Massey, commented that the death had "shattered" her family.
The courtroom was filled with Massey’s family and supporters during the sentencing, and approximately 50 protesters gathered outside the Springfield courthouse. Following the sentencing, some family members reacted with shouts of "yes" and pumped fists.
Massey’s death prompted protests and calls for justice, which led to the passage of the "Sonya Massey Act" in Illinois. This legislation mandates stricter background checks for police hires. James Wilburn, Massey’s father, had consistently expressed hope for the maximum sentence.