The Department of Justice (DOJ) has concluded its investigation into the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office and Sangamon County Dispatch in connection with the tragic shooting of Sonya Massey. The probe, initiated due to Massey's death, examined compliance with the Civil Rights Act, the Safe Streets Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman, was fatally shot by former deputy Sean P. Grayson after she called 911 for assistance on July 6, 2024.
The incident, which occurred inside Massey's home, led to Grayson being charged with first-degree murder. Massey's death ignited national outrage and widespread demonstrations against police brutality. While the DOJ found no discriminatory practices by the sheriff's office, serious concerns regarding their interactions with Black individuals and those with behavioral health disabilities remain.
"serious concerns about (the sheriff's office's) interactions with Black people and people with behavioral health disabilities" – Department of Justice
The DOJ and Sangamon County have reached an agreement to address these issues. This agreement aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and community trust through ongoing improvements. The framework will require the sheriff's office, dispatch, and county to submit biannual reports to the DOJ detailing any complaints received.
"a framework for ongoing improvements to enhance transparency, accountability, and community trust" – Sangamon County
Under the agreement, Sangamon County must implement various reforms to improve public safety and mend relationships with the community. Part of these reforms includes reviewing and updating policies, rules, and procedures to ensure non-discriminatory practices.
"review and update policies, rules and procedures" – Sangamon County
The DOJ will attempt to resolve any failure by the county or its offices to comply with the agreement requirements in good faith.
"attempt to resolve the issue(s) in good faith" – Department of Justice
Massey's family has expressed dissatisfaction with the investigation's scope and speed. Sontae Massey, a relative of Sonya Massey, voiced concerns that a broader investigation would have likely yielded findings of discrimination.
"an overwhelming sentiment in our community among a vast majority of individuals that this investigation has concluded too quickly, that the focus was too narrow, and that a (broader) overview would lead to a finding of discrimination." – Sontae Massey
"culpable for the circumstances that led to the murder of (Massey)" – Sontae Massey
Sonya Massey had a history of mental health issues and sought treatment at a local hospital on July 5 following an alleged confrontation with a neighbor. Her mental health condition was a crucial factor during her fatal encounter with law enforcement. The agreement now emphasizes more effective support for individuals in mental health crises, focusing on de-escalation and providing appropriate care rather than relying on traditional law enforcement interventions.
"more effective, immediate support for individuals in mental health crises, focusing on de-escalation and appropriate care rather than traditional law enforcement intervention" – Sangamon County
The Civil Rights Act and Safe Streets Act prohibit discrimination by recipients of federal financial assistance based on race, color, national origin, sex, and religion. Title II of the ADA further prohibits discrimination based on disability by public entities. The agreement seeks to ensure these protections are consistently upheld by Sangamon County's law enforcement agencies.
"on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, and religion by recipients of federal financial assistance" – Department of Justice
Paula Crouch, a representative from Sangamon County, expressed optimism about the impact of these reforms. She believes that these changes will not only enhance transparency and accountability but also strengthen their relationship with the community.
"will not only enhance transparency and accountability but also strengthen our relationship with the community" – Paula Crouch
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