Attorneys Ben Crump and Antonio M. Romanucci Respond to Verdict in Sean Grayson Trial

PEORIA, ILL (OCTOBER 29, 2025) - Nationally renowned civil rights and personal injury attorneys Ben Crump and Antonio Romanucci released the following statement in response to the verdict in the criminal trial of former sheriff's deputy Sean Grayson. The family will provide additional comments after the State's Attorney delivers remarks outside the Peoria County Courthouse.

The death of Sonya Massey led to significant reforms in Illinois, including the passage of the Sonya Massey Law to improve police hiring practices and a $10 million civil settlement for her family.

"While we believe Grayson's actions deserved a first-degree conviction, today's verdict is still a measure of justice for Sonya Massey. Accountability has begun, and we now hope the court will impose a meaningful sentence that reflects the severity of these crimes and the life that was lost. We will continue to fight for Sonya's family and for reforms that protect everyone from unlawful use of force.

"The family extends deep gratitude to Sangamon County State's Attorney John C. Milhiser and his entire office. They handled the case with professionalism, transparency and compassion. Prosecuting a police officer is never easy, but this team did it with courage and integrity."