Cop’s testimony, judge’s instructions influenced outcome of Sonya Massey murder case
October 30, 2025
The killing of Sonya Massey in her home by an Illinois sheriff’s deputy was pursued by prosecutors as a first-degree murder case with a possible life prison sentence. Then a judge gave the jury another option when deliberations began this week. Sean Grayson was found guilty Wednesday of second-degree murder, a lesser charge with less severe consequences. Massey’s family was outraged. Experts say a verdict form with different options is common if a judge believes the evidence presented at trial could plausibly justify it. Grayson testified he felt threatened by Massey and her pot of hot water.