In a shocking incident captured by body camera footage, former Sangamon County Sheriff's Deputy Sean Grayson, a white officer, has been indicted on charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct for shooting and killing Sonya Massey, a Black woman, in her own home. Grayson, who pleaded not guilty, is now facing severe consequences if convicted, including a possible life sentence.

The video evidence released by authorities confirms the earlier account given by prosecutors regarding the deadly encounter between Grayson and Massey. The incident unfolded on July 6, in Springfield, Illinois, when Massey called 911 to report a suspected prowler. Two deputies responded to the call and found a black SUV with broken windows in the driveway.

After a few minutes of Massey initially hesitating to open the door, she finally allowed the deputies inside her home. In the footage, Massey appeared confused and repeatedly expressed her need for help, referencing God and stating that she didn't know who owned the car in her driveway.

Inside the house, as Grayson and Massey interacted near the stove, a pot of hot water caught Grayson's attention. He instructed Massey to move it, to which she complied, but unexpectedly said, "I rebuke you in the name of Jesus." Grayson's response was immediate and violent, as he pointed his 9mm pistol at her, threatening to shoot if she didn't drop the pot.

In a tense moment, Massey swiftly ducked and raised her hands, while Grayson fired three shots at her, with one ultimately proving fatal. Shockingly, Grayson discouraged his partner from immediately providing medical assistance, indicating that her headshot wound was beyond saving.

The video sparked outrage and calls for justice from Massey's family, civil rights advocates, and the wider community. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Massey's family, denounced Grayson's justification, stating that Massey needed help and support, not lethal force.

During Tuesday's press conference, Crump revealed that Massey had previously received treatment for mental health issues, explaining her invocation of God's name and request for her Bible during the encounter. The attorney emphasized that Massey's death was an unnecessary tragedy.

Grayson was terminated from his position last week and is currently being held without bond in the Sangamon County Jail. The Sangamon County Sheriff's Office expressed their condemnation of Grayson's actions in a statement on social media, remarking that Massey's death was a direct result of his unjustifiable and reckless decision.

The case against Grayson will now proceed through the legal system, with the former deputy potentially facing a prison sentence ranging from 45 years to life for the murder charge. Additionally, he could face sentences of 6 to 30 years for aggravated battery with a firearm and 2 to 5 years for official misconduct if convicted.