Former Sheriff’s Deputy Charged with Murder in Fatal Shooting of Sonya Massey Had Complex Employment History

A comprehensive examination of employment and legal records has revealed a multifaceted background for Sean Grayson, the former sheriff’s deputy now charged with the murder of Sonya Massey. Grayson's professional trajectory reflects a series of short-term roles across multiple law enforcement agencies since 2020, coupled with a troubling personal history marked by multiple DUI convictions.

Employment History and Disciplinary Issues

Sean Grayson, 30, who held positions with six different law enforcement agencies since 2020, was dismissed from the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office on July 17. This termination occurred nearly two weeks after Grayson fatally shot Sonya Massey in her Springfield home on July 6. Massey had called 911 to report a suspected prowler. Body camera footage released on Monday reveals that Grayson, accompanied by an unnamed deputy, shot Massey in the head almost immediately after demanding that she drop a pot of water. Massey’s verbal response, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus,” preceded the shooting.

Grayson’s employment history includes part-time positions at three small Illinois police departments—Pawnee, Kincaid, and Virden—alongside full-time roles at the Auburn Police Department and the Logan County Sheriff’s Office. His tenure at these departments, all located in central Illinois, was marked by several disciplinary actions and complaints.

Complaints and Disciplinary Actions

Records from the Logan County Sheriff’s Office indicate that Grayson faced disciplinary action for an incident involving his squad car hitting a deer during a chase that contravened department policy. His personnel file also contains two complaints: one from a woman accusing him of “inappropriate” behavior during her arrest, and another from her fiancé, an inmate, alleging “abuse of power” and harassment when Grayson questioned him in jail. Although these complaints were categorized as “unfounded,” they contribute to a broader pattern of scrutiny surrounding Grayson’s professional conduct.

Prior to his tenure with Logan County, Grayson worked part-time at Pawnee, Kincaid, and Virden police departments, with overlapping periods of employment. His tenure at Kincaid ended when he was dismissed by the Village of Kincaid Board for not residing within the mandated 10-mile radius. Despite this, he retained his position at Pawnee and later joined the Virden Police Department. His employment with Virden ended on December 31, 2021, after which he secured a full-time role at the Auburn Police Department, where he served from July 2021 to May 2022.

Law Enforcement Certification and Military Background

Grayson’s law enforcement certification status, as reported by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board, is currently suspended. Prior to his law enforcement career, Grayson served as a wheeled vehicle mechanic in the Army from May 2014 to February 2016. According to discharge paperwork obtained from the Kincaid Police Department, Grayson’s separation from the Army was due to “misconduct, (serious offense).” However, detailed information regarding this misconduct is restricted under Privacy Act and Department of Defense policies.

Court records reveal that Grayson twice pleaded guilty to misdemeanor DUI charges in 2015 and 2016, with one arrest occurring during his Army service. These DUI convictions were disclosed in his application to the Auburn Police Department, where he also mentioned a prior revocation or suspension of his driving license.

Incident and Legal Proceedings

The body camera footage from the incident involving Sonya Massey shows Grayson failing to provide aid while Massey lay critically injured and discouraging his partner from assisting. The other deputy, in contrast, did render aid until medical help arrived. Grayson has pleaded not guilty to charges including first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct. He is currently being held without bond.

Following an investigation by the Illinois State Police, which is mandated by state law, the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office cited Grayson’s departure for failing to adhere to department standards and training protocols. Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser stated that the investigation and body camera footage do not justify Grayson’s use of deadly force.

The fatal shooting has garnered significant national attention, with remarks from President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. The Justice Department has announced that it is “aware of and assessing the circumstances” surrounding the case and will continue to monitor the criminal proceedings initiated by the Sangamon County State’s Attorney.

Conclusion

Sean Grayson’s extensive employment history and legal background reveal a pattern of disciplinary issues and personal conduct that have culminated in serious criminal charges. As investigations and legal proceedings progress, the scrutiny of Grayson’s actions and their implications for law enforcement practices remain a focal point of public and official review.