Testimony continued in the ongoing trial of former Sangamon County Sheriff’s Deputy Sean Grayson, who faces charges related to the shooting of Sonya Massey during a response to a 911 call. On October 22, 2025, the courtroom witnessed significant emotional moments as jurors viewed body-worn camera footage of the incident, which has become a pivotal part of the case.
Retired Chief Deputy Anthony Mayfield testified that he was shocked during the footage review, describing the room’s reaction as “silent” with “everyone shocked.” Mayfield noted that an internal investigation into Grayson’s actions had been initiated, concluding on July 17, 2024, that “policy violations” had occurred, leading to Grayson’s termination shortly before his indictment.
At one point in the proceedings, Donna Massey, Sonya’s mother, left the courtroom in tears as the jury viewed videos recorded by Grayson and his partner, Deputy Dawson Farley. The footage captured critical moments leading up to the shooting, with Donna being consoled by family members and court officials during breaks.
Deputy Farley provided dramatic testimony, recounting his observations during the incident. He stated that he felt confused, not threatened, when Massey exclaimed, “I rebuke in the name of Jesus,” during Grayson’s confrontation with her. Farley testified that Grayson’s response in drawing his firearm and subsequently shooting Massey did not align with police training, and he had been taken by surprise when Grayson fired. Following the shooting, Farley attempted to aid Massey before Grayson re-entered with a medical kit but expressed his reluctance to use it on her.
Sangamon County dispatcher Cathryn Barton also testified, discussing the 911 call made by Massey reporting a suspected prowler at her residence. In the call, she described hearing noises near her home, which led police to respond to the scene.
Illinois State Police Lt. Eric Weston led the investigation into the shooting, describing the response as an “all hands on deck situation.” He detailed how initial assumptions regarding the incident changed after reviewing the body camera footage, noting that what appeared to be an altercation was actually a brief interaction. Weston revealed that investigators collected evidence days after the incident based on new insights from the footage.
Opening statements for the trial highlighted the conflicting narratives surrounding the shooting. Prosecutor John Milhiser emphasized that the actions of Grayson were irresponsible and called for accountability, while defense attorney Daniel Fultz characterized the incident as a tragic misunderstanding where Grayson acted in self-defense.
Court proceedings are set to resume on October 23 at 9 a.m., with both the prosecution and defense continuing to present evidence in this high-profile case.