Jan 19, 2025 Story by: Editor
Springfield, Illinois (AP) — On Friday, January 17, the U.S. Justice Department and the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office announced an agreement resolving a federal investigation into potential violations of anti-discrimination laws following the fatal shooting of an unarmed Black woman, Sonya Massey, last summer in her home after she called 911 for help.
The agreement concluded that federal officials found no evidence of discriminatory practices by the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office or the county’s emergency dispatch system in connection with Massey’s death. As part of the resolution, local authorities committed to implementing several reforms, including enhanced training and improved data reporting on use-of-force incidents. The alleged shooter, former deputy Sean Grayson, was fired and remains in custody on a first-degree murder charge.
What Led to the Justice Department’s Investigation?
On July 6, 36-year-old Massey called deputies to her Springfield home, reporting a suspected prowler. Grayson and another deputy, both White, responded to the call. During their interaction, Grayson noticed a pan of boiling water on the stove. Massey retrieved the pan, jokingly gestured with it, and then said, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.” Grayson shouted at her to drop the pot, and when she ducked, he fired three shots, striking her below the left eye.
The Justice Department initially began “assessing” the incident in July, but federal involvement escalated after the Massey Commission, co-chaired by Massey’s cousin, Shadia Massey, urged intervention in October. Federal officials formally requested county records in November.
“Their advocacy has ensured that our practices are aligned with the highest standards of fairness and justice,” stated Sangamon County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter, acknowledging the efforts of the Massey Commission.
Scope of the Investigation
The Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department examined whether the county adhered to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Safe Streets Act of 1968, both of which prohibit discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. Since Massey had a documented history of mental health issues and had made several 911 calls in the days before the shooting, the investigation also considered the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which forbids bias in public services based on disabilities.
Key Provisions in the Agreement
The memorandum of agreement highlighted proactive measures already taken by the county, such as criminal charges against Grayson and the establishment of the Massey Commission to address public concerns.
“This agreement reflects Sangamon County’s commitment to instituting reform and taking action that will help improve public safety and restore trust with the community in the road ahead,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke.
The county agreed to several reforms, including:
- Enhanced Training: Deputies and dispatchers will receive additional instruction in nondiscriminatory policing, de-escalation strategies, and responding to behavioral health issues.
- Mobile Crisis Response Unit: Local health organizations will collaborate with the county to establish a unit where mental health professionals can respond to crises, prioritizing de-escalation over traditional law enforcement methods.
- Use-of-Force Data Collection: Officials will enhance the collection and analysis of use-of-force data, with a focus on incidents involving individuals with disabilities, ensuring compliance with current standards.
- Policy Updates and Community Engagement: Outdated policies will be revised, and community forums will be expanded to gather public input and improve transparency.
The Justice Department’s agreement with Sangamon County underscores its commitment to addressing issues of discrimination, reforming law enforcement practices, and building trust between communities and public safety officials. Source: CNN
