State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement after former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the murder of Sonya Massey:

“While nothing can repair the pain Sonya’s loved ones have endured, this sentencing is a vital step toward the accountability the Massey family deserves. Without key evidence from body camera footage, this step toward justice might have been lost – highlighting the important work still to be done to repair trust and transparency in the criminal justice system.

“My heart is with Sonya’s family, friends and the entire Springfield community. The reality is the unjust use of force against Black lives is a serious and ongoing issue. May we continue to fight for justice and accountability until Sonya’s legacy is a world where calling for help from those sworn to protect and serve never brings fear, only safety.”