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CHICAGO (CBS) — Sangamon County has come to a $10 million settlement with the family of Sonya Massey, a woman tragically shot and killed by a sheriff’s deputy in her home. The incident took place last year after Massey had called 911 to report a potential prowler.
Records revealed that negotiations for the settlement were conducted through mediation, involving comprehensive discussions between county attorneys and representatives for Massey’s family. The shooting occurred on July 6, 2024, just moments after Deputy Grayson and other officers arrived in response to Massey’s emergency call. Reports indicate that the deputy fired upon Massey as she went to check on a boiling pot of water in her kitchen, reportedly stating, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.” Deputy Grayson claimed he felt threatened at the time, but he has since been dismissed from the sheriff’s office and faces charges including first-degree murder, aggravated battery, and official misconduct. He has pleaded not guilty and is currently awaiting trial while in custody.
The proposed settlement will require approval by the Sangamon County Board. In a memo addressed to the board, Chairman Andy Van Meter emphasized the county’s commitment to addressing the circumstances surrounding Massey’s death, stating that the agreement will not lead to any tax increases or service reductions for county residents. Furthermore, he noted ongoing efforts to enhance county policies, including a memorandum of agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice aimed at improving crisis response and community relations.
While some officials have expressed optimism regarding the approval of the settlement, questions linger about the funding source for the payout. Sangamon County Board member Sam Cahnman highlighted the discrepancy, noting that the existing settlement fund only holds $1.5 million. He has called for clarification from Van Meter on how the county plans to finance the settlement without imposing additional burdens on taxpayers or cutting services.
For Massey’s family, the settlement is perceived as a step toward justice amidst their ongoing quest for accountability. Following her death, family members have stated their intention to hold county officials responsible for the events that led to this tragedy. Her son, Malachi Hill-Massey, expressed determination, asserting, “We’re going to get justice for sure. I know. We are, for sure.”
The remembrance of Sonya Massey will continue on February 12, which would have marked her 37th birthday, as her family plans a demonstration at the state capitol. In the backdrop of these developments, the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office has agreed to undergo monitoring by the U.S. Justice Department for a span of two years. However, the stability of this agreement is uncertain as it is currently under review by officials from the Trump administration.
Additionally, a group of county board members has reached out to the Massey Commission, established in reaction to Massey’s murder, urging them to solicit an investigation by the Illinois Attorney General or Illinois State Police into the practices of the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office. The commission is scheduled to discuss this request at its upcoming meeting on February 10.
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