Grayson takes the stand | Inside the Courtroom: Sean Grayson trial - Day 6

Published: Monday, October 27, 2025 at 4:34 pm

Former Deputy Testifies in Murder Trial

Former Sangamon County Sheriff's Deputy Sean Grayson is currently on trial for the first-degree murder of Sonya Massey. The incident occurred on July 6, 2024, in Massey's home, where Grayson shot her. If convicted, Grayson, 31, faces decades in prison. The trial, moved to Peoria County due to pre-trial press, is focusing on whether Grayson's actions were justified.

Grayson took the stand to explain his actions. He testified that he felt threatened by Massey, who was holding a pot of boiling water and allegedly threatened him. He stated he opted not to use a Taser, believing his pistol was the only appropriate response to the perceived threat. Grayson admitted he should have activated his body camera earlier during the encounter.

The prosecution's cross-examination highlighted inconsistencies in Grayson's reports, particularly regarding the details of the events leading up to the shooting. Grayson described Massey's behavior as erratic, and he believed she was about to throw the water at him. The defense argues Grayson was in fear of an imminent threat, while prosecutors contend he disregarded signs of a mental health crisis.

The trial has presented body-worn camera footage, which shows the events leading up to the shooting. The footage reveals that Grayson's camera was not activated until after the deputies had been at the scene for approximately 12 minutes, a violation of departmental policy. The trial is expected to continue through at least Wednesday.

BNN's Perspective: This case highlights the complexities of split-second decisions made by law enforcement officers. While the defense argues for the officer's right to self-defense, the prosecution's focus on departmental policy and the officer's actions leading up to the shooting raises critical questions about the use of force and the importance of de-escalation tactics. The outcome of this trial will likely have implications for police training and procedures.

Keywords: Sean Grayson, Sonya Massey, murder trial, first-degree murder, police shooting, use of force, body camera, Sangamon County, Peoria County, self-defense, aggravated assault, boiling water, departmental policy, jury trial.

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