An Illinois appellate court’s decision to release former Sangamon County Sheriff’s Deputy Sean Grayson pre-trial has sparked outrage among the family of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black mother who was fatally shot by Grayson in her Woodside Township home on July 6.
James Wilburn, Massey’s father, delivered an impassioned speech at the Illinois Capitol on Dec. 5, vowing to continue fighting for justice.
“Until an undertaker puts embalming fluid in this body, I’m going to fight to keep my daughter’s killer in a jail cell,” Wilburn declared, addressing a crowd of supporters.
Grayson, a white sheriff’s deputy, shot Massey in the face after she moved a pot of water from the stove at his request. He has been in jail since his arrest.
However, the appellate court recently ruled against Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser’s argument that Grayson posed a threat to public safety, ordering his release with conditions in 35 days.
Wilburn expressed frustration with the court’s decision, stating:
“If these three appellate court justices think that Sean Grayson is not a danger to society, move him into their house. Let’s see if their wife and kids would allow him to live there.”
Massey’s cousin, Shadia Massey, also voiced her concerns, explaining the emotional toll the decision has taken on their family.
“I think it will hurt my auntie real bad. So I’m just asking (the appellate court) to do anything to not let him out of jail,” she said.
Wilburn’s fight for justice extends beyond his daughter’s case. He highlighted the need for systemic change, urging lawmakers to pass the George Floyd Policing Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act.
“I’m going to be in the face of those leaders in Washington, D.C.,” he said. “We need to close up these holes in safety and our laws. Those are the kinds of things I’ve dedicated my life to.”
As the family grapples with the impending release of Grayson, their resilience and advocacy underscore the challenges faced by those seeking accountability within the criminal justice system.
