Sean Grayson, a former Sangamon County Sheriff’s deputy convicted of the murder of Sonya Massey, was denied medical release from prison. The Illinois Prisoner Review Board voted 3-0 against his application, keeping him in custody. Grayson’s lawyers cited his colon cancer diagnosis, which has spread to his liver, as the basis for the request.
A photo of Sonya Massey shows the 36-year-old Black mother who was killed on July 6, 2024, by Grayson. Attorneys Ben Crump and Antonio Romanucci, representing Massey’s family, stated, “No one is above accountability, and a badge does not provide an early way out.” This sentiment was echoed in Friday’s decision.
Grayson was sentenced to 20 years for second-degree murder, the maximum under Illinois law, about six months ago. The case drew national attention, largely due to body-camera footage showing the shooting. Massey had called 911 about a prowler near her Springfield home when Grayson, who was later fired, fatally shot her. The following fallout included the Sangamon County sheriff’s resignation and a $10 million settlement for Massey’s family.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed condolences, calling Massey’s death a “profound loss.” He also highlighted the “Sonya Massey Bill,” aimed at revising police hiring practices. Pritzker remarked on the violence faced by innocent Black Americans and the need for justice.
Grayson sought release under an Illinois law for those with terminal illnesses. Reports from Capitol News Illinois confirmed his diagnosis is “irreversible and incurable.” Neither Grayson nor his attorneys chose to speak during the hearing.
Massey’s parents shared their views. Her father, James Wilburn, criticized the idea of releasing Grayson, mentioning his daughter lacked the chance to die with loved ones. Donna Massey, her mother, labeled Grayson “a menace to society.”
The Sangamon County State’s Attorney also opposed Grayson’s release, arguing he is a threat and his diagnosis was known at sentencing. “He was already diagnosed with cancer when he shot and killed Sonya Massey,” stated State’s Attorney John Milhiser, underscoring Grayson’s potential danger.
Judge Ryan Cadagin previously noted during sentencing that Grayson’s prison medical treatment was comparable to any community setting. The board’s decision followed private deliberations where they did not elaborate on their reasoning. Massey’s family and supporters, present at the decision, expressed gratitude at the outcome.