Attorneys representing Sonya Massey’s family describe $10 million payout as an ‘initial move;’ looking ahead to trial and potential law reforms.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A $10 million settlement has been reached between officials in Sangamon County and the family of Sonya Massey, marking what family lawyers are calling a “first step towards full justice” for the Black woman who was fatally shot in her home by a sheriff’s deputy last summer. The settlement was approved by the Sangamon County Board on Tuesday evening, coinciding with what would have been Massey’s 37th birthday.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump expressed his sentiments in an online press conference, highlighting the emotional weight of the settlement amid ongoing criminal proceedings and potential legislative reforms. “It is bittersweet,” he stated. “This is our first step in securing complete justice for Sonya Massey. We demand civil accountability, criminal accountability, and legislative changes to ensure this tragedy does not happen again.”

Former sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson, who is 30 years old, is facing a first-degree murder charge connected to the incident. Grayson was responding to a 911 call made by Massey, who had been dealing with mental health issues, regarding a suspected intruder. The tragedy occurred when Grayson shot Massey while she was transferring a pot of boiling water from her stove.

Alongside Crump were family members and State Representative Justin Slaughter, a Democrat from Chicago. Slaughter is working on legislative measures intended to enhance accountability in police hiring practices, particularly ensuring that candidates’ records from prior departments are fully investigated. Grayson’s employment history includes positions at six police departments over a span of four years, during which he encountered several disciplinary and legal challenges.

“My heart is heavy today,” said James Wilburn, Massey’s father. He expressed gratitude towards Slaughter and State Senator Doris Turner for their efforts to introduce legislation aimed at preventing officers with questionable backgrounds from moving between departments, ensuring no other family has to endure the pain that they are currently experiencing.

The county will fund the settlement from a special account and other reserve funds. The allocation of these funds will be determined by a court, but it has been specified that Massey’s two teenage children will receive the majority, as confirmed by attorney Antonio Romanucci. A court will also settle on attorney fees, with Crump assuring that “the lion’s share will go to the family.”

This case has gained national attention as a significant instance of police violence against Black individuals in their homes. It also led to the early retirement of Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell, who had employed Grayson, and resulted in an agreement with the Justice Department to enhance training on non-discriminatory policing, de-escalation tactics, and mental health crisis responses.

Prior to the shooting, Massey had made several 911 calls regarding her mental health issues. On the early morning of July 6, she contacted emergency services to report a potential prowler. Upon arrival, Grayson and another deputy interacted with her in the living room. He noticed a pot of water boiling on the stove and instructed the other officer to remove it.

As Massey retrieved the pot, she joked with Grayson, who then issued a command for her to drop it. In response, she stated, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.” Grayson escalated the situation by drawing his weapon and ordering her to lower the pot. Massey apologized and attempted to shield herself behind a counter. Grayson fired three shots, striking her just below her left eye.

Despite a unanimous ruling in November by the 4th District Appellate Court stating that Grayson’s pre-trial detention was not justified, he remains incarcerated. The court ruled that prosecutors did not demonstrate that Grayson posed a risk to the community if released. The state of Illinois recently abolished cash bail due to a law sponsored by Slaughter, which allows judges to only order detention when there is adequate justification. The Illinois Supreme Court is currently evaluating an appeal related to this ruling.