Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating allegations of discrimination by the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, Sangamon County, and the Sangamon County Central Dispatch System. The investigation centers on potential violations of federal laws, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, the Safe Streets Act, and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibit discrimination based on race, sex, religion and disability.

DOJ Notice Letter: 2024-11-14 SCSO et al Notice Letter and RFI

The DOJ review includes the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a Black woman experiencing a mental health crisis, by a deputy in July. The incident has raised questions about how the sheriff’s office handles interactions with Black residents and people with disabilities, as well as its policies on use of force, de-escalation, and emergency responses. The investigation will also look into allegations that there is a lack of diversity among the staff.

On Oct. 28, the Massey Commission, created by Sangamon County, sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland requesting a full review of the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, specifically focusing on its hiring practices, procedures, review of complaints, and disciplinary actions.

Massey Commission letter requesting DOJ investigation

As part of its investigation, the DOJ has requested records from the sheriff, county, and dispatch system. These include training materials, hiring practices, use of force data, and records related to the Massey shooting and similar cases. The DOJ has also asked for policies on responding to mental health crises and discrimination complaints.

Sheriff Paula Crouch issued a formal statement Friday in response to the DOJ letter, and said her office and other county agencies will fully cooperate with the review. “While the volume of material requested is substantial, we understand and respect the need for thorough analysis, and we will be bringing in professional staff to assist in compiling the data to ensure accuracy and completeness.”

Crouch emphasized that the county has been transparent and much of the requested material regarding the Massey shooting is already available at the county’s website. Crouch said the process is part of building trust in the community.

“We welcome the Department of Justice’s review as an opportunity to ensure that our community’s law enforcement services meet the highest standards of fairness and accountability. I have full confidence in Sheriff Paula Crouch and her team to approach this process with transparency and diligence,” said Sangamon County Chairman Andy Van Meter in the release issued Friday by the county.

The agencies have until Dec. 14, to provide the information.