Roommates… justice does not always come with relief – sometimes it is heavy, complicated and unfinished. This week, Sonya Massey the father and cousin denounce the former officer who killed her, Sean Graysonwas finally convicted. And they send his name ringing through the courtroom once again.
RELATED: BREAKING! Sean Grayson sentenced to 20 years in prison for the murder of Sonya Massey
Sonya Massey’s father says the sentence is not enough
According to a former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy was sentenced to 20 years in prison for fatally shooting his daughter inside his home in 2024, Sonya Massey’s father, James Wilburnexpressed himself. Speaking to reporters after the Jan. 29 sentencing, Wilburn thanked the state of Illinois for taking steps toward accountability. However, he still clarified that the fight was far from finished.
Wilburn, who lives in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, highlighted the passage of the Sonya Massey Act, a law named in her daughter’s honor that strengthens background checks on children. future police officers. He also acknowledged that the maximum sentence handed down to former deputy Sean Grayson for second-degree murder could be unprecedented in Illinois. But he stressed that the law itself remains insufficient. “Twenty years isn’t enough, but they did what they could” Wilburn said. He also noted that Grayson will only serve 50 percent of his sentence under state law.
His family focuses on police accountability
Despite emotional reactions of the family members shouting “Yes!” When the sentence was read, Wilburn pointed out that Illinois’ sentencing range for second-degree murder needs to be reformed. He called for federal civil rights charges against Grayson and reiterated his hope that the Sonya Massey Act becomes law nationwide. “This is so no family will ever have to endure the kind of suffering this family endured. he said.
Sontae MasseySonya’s cousin, also spoke forcefully after the sentencing, drawing attention to accountability within law enforcement. He publicly praised Deputy Dawson Farley, the officer who testified against Grayson. He emphasized how Farley body-worn camera footage played a crucial role in the conviction.
“Dawson Farley doesn’t get enough credit“, Sontae said. “We need more police officers like him, who stood in the middle of the fire and told the truth. »
Wilburn echoed these sentiments, saying that Farley’s images “changed the narrative » and revealed what really happened in Sonya’s house.
How Sonya Massey’s family is moving forward after the conviction
Wilburn and Sontae Massey were visibly emotional as they spoke to the media, balancing relief and continued frustration. While recognizing the sentence as a step toward justice, Wilburn said the most difficult moment came when Grayson asked family for forgiveness in court. “He took the witness stand during the trial and doubled down on his lie.” Wilburn said. He also insisted that federal action and recognition of Sonya’s civil rights violations are necessary for true accountability.
The family’s determination has now turned to inheritance. Sontae Massey urged Sangamon County voters to support the creation and funding of a 708 Mental Health Board. She recognized that this was a way to honor Sonya’s life and address systemic failures. Sonya Massey my mother called 911 just a few hours ago before his death, seeking help for a mental health crisis that ended in tragedy.
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