Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson appeared in person in a Sangamon County courtroom Tuesday, where a judge granted a change of location for Grayson’s upcoming murder trial.

Judge Ryan Cadagin said Peoria County has been contacted about accommodating the trial. Neither the defense nor Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser objected to the venue change.

Grayson is charged with first-degree murder in the July 2024 shooting death of Sonya Massey. He was on duty and responding to a 911 call at Massey’s home.

Speaking outside the courtroom following the hearing, community activist Teresa Haley said the change in location won’t impact the trial’s outcome. “He assassinated her, and I think anybody in America will agree that he should be sentenced to life, so that’s what we’re going for.”

Sontae Massey, Sonya’s cousin, said the family intends to be present regardless of where the trial is held.

Grayson’s next court appearance is a status hearing scheduled for April 23 in Springfield, where a trial timeline is expected to be discussed.

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