Illinois Governor Calls for Sheriff’s Resignation

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has called for the resignation of Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell following the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey by former deputy Sean Grayson on July 6. Grayson faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, after he shot Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman, when she called 911 for help. Pritzker criticized Campbell for his failure to explain Grayson's hiring, citing a troubling history that includes discharge from the Army for misconduct and multiple law enforcement jobs with complaints about his training. While Campbell has refused to resign, he acknowledged the need for potential changes in hiring practices. Pritzker's call for resignation is part of a broader push for accountability and reforms within the sheriff's department amidst community fears and calls for restorative justice. The situation has raised concerns about the possibility of independent investigations, including involvement from the U.S. Department of Justice.