Former Illinois deputy found guilty of second-degree murder in Sonya Massey shooting

Former sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson has been found guilty of second-degree murder in the shooting death of 36-year-old Sonya Massey

(NBC)- Former sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson has been found guilty of second-degree murder in the shooting death of 36-year-old Sonya Massey, who was killed in her Springfield home last year after calling 911 to report a possible prowler.

The verdict — carrying a possible sentence of up to 20 years in prison — prompted both cheers and frustration outside the courthouse, where protesters shouted, “Guilty!” and “Of second degree? Ugh!” Massey’s family and supporters had been pushing for a first-degree murder conviction.

“I’m fueled by rage right now,” one family member said. “You get an officer that says he’s going to shoot you in the face, and then he shoots you in the face, and you only get second-degree murder.”

Grayson remained emotionless as the verdict was read. The jury concluded his use of deadly force was unreasonable, rejecting his claim that Massey posed a threat.

“I took it as a threat,” Grayson testified during the trial, referring to the moment Massey lifted a pot of boiling water. Body camera video showed her moments earlier saying, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus,” before ducking behind her counter and apologizing.

Prosecutors argued Grayson could have safely exited the home at that point, rather than opening fire.

Massey’s father said he hopes Grayson receives the maximum sentence, adding, “He showed no remorse. He was so cocky throughout this whole trial — until today. That knocked the smirk off.”

Grayson will be sentenced at a later date.