Springfield Officials Settle With Sonya Massey's Family for $10M

County resolves lawsuit over fatal deputy shooting of Black woman

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Posted Feb 12, 2025 10:53 AM CST

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Springfield Officials Settle With Sonya Massey's Family for $10M — In this image taken from body camera video released by Illinois State Police, Sonya Massey, left, talks with former Sangamon County Sheriff's Deputy Sean Grayson outside her home in Springfield, Ill., July 6, 2024. (Illinois State Police via AP, File)

In a significant development, officials in Sangamon County, Ill., agreed to a $10 million settlement for the family of Sonya Massey, a Black woman fatally shot in her home by a deputy during a 911 response. Former deputy Sean Grayson, 30, is charged with first-degree murder in the case, which drew national attention.

The Sangamon County Board's decision aims to prevent a prolonged legal battle. The settlement utilizes $1.5 million from the county's fund and reserves from other county funds, ensuring no new taxes or debt. Brian McFadden, the county administrator, said: "To pay for this particular settlement, we will not be raising taxes, we will not be issuing additional debt, we will not be cutting services." (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)