The former Illinois deputy convicted of killing Sonya Massey faces up to 20 years in prison
January 28, 2026
The former Illinois sheriff’s deputy who was convicted of fatally shooting Sonya Massey in her Springfield home could be facing up to 20 years behind bars. Sean Grayson was convicted in October of second-degree murder for killing Massey on July 6, 2024, after she called 911 for help. Grayson is scheduled to be sentenced on Thursday. Sangamon County Circuit Judge Ryan Cadagin could sentence the 31-year-old to as much as 20 years in prison but the former deputy is also eligible for probation. Grayson has been incarcerated since he was charged. Grayson testified that he shot the 36-year-old Massey because he feared she was about to scald him with a pan of hot water.