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The murder trial for the former sheriff’s deputy from Illinois, who shot and killed Sonya Massey, is set to commence on October 20.
Judge proceedings earlier this week led to the scheduling of the trial for Sean Grayson, a former deputy with the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office. This trial follows the tragic incident that occurred on July 6, 2023, when Grayson, accompanied by another deputy, responded to an emergency call placed by Massey. Shortly after their arrival at her residence in Springfield, body camera footage captured the moment Grayson shot Massey, who was reportedly attempting to check on a pot of boiling water while proclaiming, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.”
Grayson has claimed that he feared for his safety, worried that Massey might splash him with hot water. However, following the incident, he was dismissed from the sheriff’s office approximately two weeks later and subsequently faced charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery, and official misconduct. He has entered a plea of not guilty to all charges.
This month, a significant development occurred when a judge ruled to transfer the trial from Sangamon County to Peoria County. This decision was based on concerns raised by Grayson’s legal team regarding the intense media coverage surrounding the case, which they argued could impede the selection of an unbiased jury in Sangamon County.
In a related matter, back in February, the Sangamon County Board approved a substantial settlement of $10 million with Massey’s family, acknowledging the profound loss they’ve experienced.
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