Roommates… justice doesn’t at all times include aid — typically it comes heavy, sophisticated, and unfinished. This week, Sonya Massey’s father and cousin are talking out after the previous officer who killed her, Sean Grayson, was lastly sentenced. And, they’re sending her identify echoing by means of the courtroom as soon as once more.
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Sonya Massey’s Father Says Sentence Isn’t Enough
After a former Sangamon County Sheriff’s deputy was sentenced to 20 years in jail for fatally capturing his daughter inside her residence in 2024, Sonya Massey’s father, James Wilburn, spoke out. Standing earlier than reporters after the January 29 sentencing, Wilburn thanked the state of Illinois for taking steps towards accountability. Nonetheless, he nonetheless made it clear that the battle is removed from over.
Wilburn, who lives in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, pointed to the passage of the Sonya Massey Act, laws named in his daughter’s honor that strengthens background checks for future police officers. He additionally acknowledged that the utmost sentence handed all the way down to former deputy Sean Grayson for second-degree homicide could also be unprecedented in Illinois. But, he harassed that the legislation itself nonetheless falls brief. “Twenty years shouldn’t be sufficient, however they did what they might,” Wilburn stated. He additionally famous that Grayson will serve solely 50% of his sentence beneath state statute.
Her Family Shifts Focus To Police Accountability
Despite emotional reactions of family members shouting “Yes!” when the sentence was learn — Wilburn emphasised that Illinois’ sentencing vary for second-degree homicide wants reform. He referred to as for federal civil rights costs towards Grayson and reiterated his hope that the Sonya Massey Act turns into legislation nationwide. “That’s so no household will ever must undergo the type of damage this household has gone by means of,” he stated.
Sontae Massey, Sonya’s cousin, additionally spoke powerfully following the sentencing, shifting consideration to accountability inside legislation enforcement. He publicly praised Deputy Dawson Farley, the officer who testified towards Grayson. He emphasised how Farley’s body-worn camera footage performed a important position within the conviction.
“Dawson Farley doesn’t get sufficient credit score,” Sontae stated. “We want extra law enforcement officials like him who stood within the hearth and informed the reality.”
Wilburn echoed these sentiments, saying Farley’s footage “modified the narrative” and uncovered what actually occurred inside Sonya’s residence.
How Sonya Massey’s Family Pushes Forward After Sentencing
Both Wilburn and Sontae Massey have been visibly emotional as they addressed the media, balancing aid with continued frustration. While acknowledging the sentence as a step towards justice, Wilburn stated the toughest second got here when Grayson requested the family for forgiveness in court docket. “He obtained on the witness stand through the trial and doubled down on his lie,” Wilburn stated. He additionally insisted that federal motion and recognition of Sonya’s civil rights violations are essential for true accountability.
The household’s resolve has now turned towards legacy. Sontae Massey urged Sangamon County voters to help the creation and funding of a 708 Mental Health Board. She acknowledged it as a option to honor Sonya’s life and deal with systemic failures. Sonya Massey’s mother called 911 just hours earlier than her demise, in search of assist for a psychological well being disaster that resulted in tragedy.
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What Do You Think Roomies?
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