A former Illinois sheriff’s deputy has been sentenced to 20 years in prison following his conviction in the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a Pine Bluff native who was killed inside her home after calling 911 for help.
Sean Grayson, 31, was found guilty in October of second-degree murder in the death of Massey, a 36-year-old Black mother. The sentence represents the maximum penalty allowed under Illinois law for the charge, though Grayson may be eligible for early release.
The shooting occurred in July 2024 in Springfield, Illinois, after Massey contacted emergency dispatchers out of concern that someone was outside her home. Prosecutors said Grayson and another deputy responded to the call, searched the property, and found no one in the yard before knocking on the door and entering the residence.
Massey’s father, James Wilborn, who still lives in Pine Bluff, attended Grayson’s sentencing and spoke with Deltaplex News following the hearing.
Wilborn said he expects Grayson to file an appeal of the sentence.
He also said he hopes federal charges will be filed against Grayson for violating his daughter’s civil rights.
Wilborn expressed his gratitude to Jefferson County for its support during this difficult time.
