An Illinois police union has made a decisive shift in its stance related to the firing of former Sangamon County Sheriff's Department Deputy Sean Grayson, who fatally shot Sonya Massey in her kitchen. The Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council announced its decision not to seek Grayson's reinstatement, signaling a notable reversal in response to the widespread outrage following Massey's tragic death. The union clarified that while they initially filed a grievance over Grayson's termination as a standard procedure, they have now opted to halt any further efforts in that regard.

Grayson's actions, captured on footage where he shot Massey in the face after she called 911 for assistance with a potential intruder, have fueled public outcry and reignited calls for police reform nationwide. The distressing incident occurred on July 6 and has drawn comparisons to other high-profile cases, such as the killings of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd. Despite Grayson's delay in activating his body-worn camera until after the shooting, the incident was recorded by another officer present at the scene.

Following Grayson's indictment on multiple charges, including murder, the decision to terminate his employment was made, and he has since pleaded not guilty and remains in custody without bond. The announcement by the police union not to pursue Grayson's reinstatement follows a tense listening session organized by the Justice Department for the grieving community, where the sheriff who hired Grayson called for forgiveness but refused to step down from his position. This development precedes a planned rally in Chicago, set to be attended by Massey's family, prominent civil rights figures Rev. Al Sharpton and attorney Ben Crump, who have been advocating for justice for D'Vontaye Mitchell, a Black man killed by security guards in Milwaukee on June 30.