In a recent report by CBS News, details have emerged about the troubled past of former Illinois sheriff’s deputy Sean P. Grayson, who is now facing charges for fatally shooting 36-year-old Sonya Massey in her home.
According to records obtained by CBS News, Grayson had a disciplinary file that included accusations of bullying behavior and abuse of power. Girard Police Chief Wayman Meredith recalled an incident where Grayson pressured him to call child protective services on a woman outside of his mother’s home, describing Grayson as a bully who wanted him to do things that were not appropriate.
Audio recordings released by the Logan County Sheriff’s Office showed superior officers expressing concerns about Grayson’s behavior. In one recording, a supervising officer reprimanded Grayson for his lack of integrity, lying in reports, and official misconduct. The officer warned Grayson that officers with similar behavior had ended up in jail.
The disciplinary file also included an incident from March 2023 where Grayson, described as “steaming mad,” was reported to have acted aggressively. Concerns were raised by Chief Meredith, who noted that Grayson had recently been diagnosed with cancer and had experienced a family tragedy.
Additionally, the disciplinary file contained accusations of Grayson abusing his power and harassing individuals during a traffic stop. A couple filed a complaint against Grayson, alleging bullying behavior and invasion of privacy when he forced the woman to remove drugs hidden inside her body in front of him.
Despite the couple’s allegations being deemed unfounded, Grayson left the Logan County Sheriff’s Office in “good standing” and was subsequently hired by the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office. It was while working in this new position that Grayson responded to Sonya Massey’s 911 call reporting a possible prowler.
Bodycam footage from the incident showed Grayson entering Massey’s home, engaging in a heated exchange with her, and ultimately firing three shots at her as she crouched down in her kitchen. Grayson claimed Massey was about to throw hot water on him, a claim not supported by the video evidence.
Prior to his law enforcement career, Grayson had pleaded guilty to driving under the influence twice and had a history of short stints in multiple departments. He also left the Army after less than two years of service.
Grayson’s attorney declined to provide a comment to CBS News on the matter. The tragic shooting of Sonya Massey has left her family seeking answers and justice in the wake of the disturbing events involving Grayson’s actions.
