Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker expressed his disappointment with the response of Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell regarding the hiring of Deputy Sean Grayson, who shot and killed 36-year-old Sonya Massey. The tragic incident has sparked protests nationwide and raised concerns about police use of force against Black individuals. Grayson has been fired and charged with murder, while the Department of Justice is investigating.
Pritzker criticized the lack of transparency in Grayson’s hiring process and questioned how the sheriff overlooked Grayson’s problematic background. Grayson had a history of misconduct and multiple DUIs before joining law enforcement. Despite concerns raised by other law enforcement agencies about Grayson’s abilities, he was hired as a deputy by Sangamon County.
The shooting occurred when officers responded to a 911 call at Massey’s home. Body camera footage shows Grayson threatening Massey before fatally shooting her. Massey’s family stated that she had mental health issues. Grayson has pleaded not guilty to charges related to the incident.
Pritzker’s remarks highlight the need for accountability in law enforcement hiring practices. The community’s outcry against police violence underscores the urgency for change. #JusticeForSonya #EndPoliceBrutality #BlackLivesMatter #TransparencyInLawEnforcement
Gov. J.B. Pritzker ‘disappointed’ with sheriff’s answers on hiring of deputy who shot Sonya Massey