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Ex-Deputy Sentenced After Shooting 911 Caller, Sparks Outrage

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Sean Grayson, a former Illinois sheriff's deputy, faces sentencing Thursday after a jury convicted him in the July 6, 2024 shooting of Sonya Massey, a Black woman who called 911 for help.
The jury's decision to convict him of a lesser charge sparked outrage among Massey's family.
The case led to a $10 million settlement for Massey's relatives and prompted changes in Illinois law on law enforcement transparency and training.

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Story summary

Sean Grayson, a former Illinois sheriff's deputy, faces sentencing Thursday after a jury convicted him in the July 6, 2024 shooting of Sonya Massey, a Black woman who called 911 for help.
The jury's decision to convict him of a lesser charge sparked outrage among Massey's family.
The case led to a $10 million settlement for Massey's relatives and prompted changes in Illinois law on law enforcement transparency and training.