Justice Department Investigates Shooting of Sonya Massey

The U.S. Justice Department is investigating the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office following the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman, by Deputy Sean Grayson. Massey called the police to check for an intruder, but the situation escalated, leading to her being shot three times despite showing no clear threat. The federal probe, initiated by a letter on Nov. 14, seeks to examine the sheriff's protocols for handling encounters involving individuals with behavioral health issues. Grayson has been charged with first-degree murder and has pleaded not guilty. The investigation raises significant concerns regarding police interactions with Black residents and those with mental disabilities. Sheriff Paula Crouch has committed to cooperating with the inquiry, which aims to restore community trust and improve crisis response practices.