Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Attorneys for Sean Grayson filed a motion Wednesday morning requesting a change of location for their client’s trial. They argue Grayson can’t get a fair trial in Sangamon County.

Grayson faces first-degree murder charges in the shooting death of Sonya Massey at her home on July 6, 2024. Grayson and another Sangamon County Deputy had responded to a 911 call at Massey’s home about a prowler.

Illinois law allows a defendant to request a location change if there is a level of prejudice among the county’s inhabitants that prevents a fair trial.

The filing, by attorneys Daniel Fultz and Mark Wykoff, emphasizes the extensive media coverage surrounding Massey’s death, both locally and nationally. It also highlights the significant community awareness and involvement, describing it as “substantial.”

Additionally, the motion cites a GoFundMe account started by Sonya Massey’s father, James Wilburn, which has garnered over 15,000 donations, raising more than $500,000.

The motion further mentions the impending renaming of the Massey Memorial Bridge on Jefferson Street in Springfield, as well as the recent $10 million settlement between Sangamon County and the Massey family.

Fultz and Wykoff stated in the request that it is virtually impossible to secure a fair and impartial jury in Sangamon County, and that “prejudgment of this case – whether through direct knowledge, media influence, or social pressure – poses a significant threat to the Defendant’s right to a fair trial.”

 

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