Sonya Massey’s family is accusing local law enforcement of trying to cover up the tragic shooting that resulted in her death.
They claim that police officers misled hospital staff in Illinois, suggesting that the mother-of-two had taken her own life, despite evidence to the contrary.
On July 6, Massey, 36, called the police in Springfield, Illinois, during the early hours to report a suspicious person in the neighborhood.
Two deputies from the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office arrived to investigate.
After searching the area for about 30 minutes without finding anything, they entered Massey’s home to speak with her. As she was boiling water, Deputy Sean Grayson shot her three times, resulting in her death.
At a press conference on Tuesday, attorney Ben Crump revealed that audio from the dispatcher that night includes an officer falsely stating that Massey’s injuries were self-inflicted.
This revelation comes as the Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced an investigation into the incident.
Crump stated that the Massey family only learned from the media about the true nature of her death, which was initially misrepresented as a shooting by an intruder.
Family member James Wilburn expressed his outrage, suggesting that without video evidence, law enforcement might have successfully misled everyone about the incident.
Calls for Accountability
Wilburn has demanded the resignation of Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell, criticizing the sheriff’s handling of the situation and the deputy involved.
“This man should have never had a badge or a gun,” Wilburn said, expressing his belief that Grayson was unfit for duty.
A 911 scanner transcript from the night of the shooting also includes claims from individuals at the scene, suggesting that Massey’s death was a result of a self-inflicted wound.
Jimmie Crawford, the father of Massey’s daughter, revealed that he was told a neighbor was responsible for the shooting.
Crump welcomed the DOJ’s involvement, noting that both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have expressed support for the Massey family.
Harris described Massey’s death as “senseless,” and arrangements are being made for her to meet with the family.
Crump also mentioned a recent meeting between Massey’s family and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, emphasizing a commitment to a fair and transparent investigation.
Legal Developments
Deputy Grayson has been terminated from his position and has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder.
While Crump did not confirm whether the family will pursue a civil lawsuit, he indicated that all legal avenues are being explored to ensure justice for Massey.
Wilburn criticized Grayson’s previous record, noting that he had been employed at several police departments in a short period and had prior DUI convictions.
The body camera footage released recently shows a tense moment when Grayson ordered Massey to put down a pot of hot water before firing at her.
Legislative Actions and Future Steps
Massey’s family is calling for the passage of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, both of which had previously passed the U.S. House but stalled in the Senate.
The Justice in Policing Act aims to address police misconduct and excessive force, while the Voting Rights Act seeks to protect voting laws.
Wilburn urged Congress to act swiftly to prevent others from experiencing similar tragedies. Meanwhile, Grayson remains in custody without bond and faces severe prison sentences if convicted.
TDPel Media
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