**Justice Department Investigates Civil Rights Violations in Illinois Police Shooting**

The U.S. Justice Department has launched a civil rights investigation into the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey by a sheriff's deputy in Sangamon County, Illinois. Ms. Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman, was killed inside her Springfield home on July 6th by Deputy Sean Grayson, who has since been charged with murder.

The incident occurred after Ms. Massey's mother, Donna Massey, called 911 on July 5th, citing that her daughter was experiencing a mental health crisis. When officers arrived at Ms. Massey's residence, a dispute over a pot of hot water ensued, leading to the fatal shooting. Deputy Grayson, who is white, was also charged with aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct, and he has pleaded not guilty.

In a letter to Sangamon County officials, the Justice Department expressed "serious concerns" over the Sheriff's Office's interactions with Black individuals and people with behavioral health disabilities. The investigation will scrutinize potential violations of federal nondiscrimination laws by both the county's law enforcement and its central emergency dispatch system.

The Justice Department's inquiry will examine various aspects of the incident and the county's policing practices, demanding access to documents such as phone logs, dispatch records, and training protocols for handling behavioral health crises. Additionally, the department has requested data segmented by race on the use of force and frequency of traffic and pedestrian stops.

Sangamon County Sheriff Paula Crouch confirmed the agencies involved are cooperating fully with the investigation. In a statement, she emphasized the importance of the review process for reinforcing public confidence and ensuring fair law enforcement services. Sangamon County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter echoed this sentiment, promising the necessary financial and staffing support to meet the Justice Department's requirements.

The fatal shooting and the subsequent public outcry prompted the resignation of then-Sheriff Jack Campbell in August. Campbell had previously hired Grayson despite his record of two DUI convictions, including one that led to his early discharge from the Army in 2016.

Body camera footage from the incident shows Ms. Massey complying with a request to provide identification before moving to her kitchen, where she picked up a pot of water. Despite being several feet away from the officers, the situation escalated quickly, with Grayson threatening to shoot her and subsequently opening fire.

This case has drawn significant attention to the practices of the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office and highlighted broader concerns about police interactions with vulnerable populations. The Justice Department's investigation aims to ensure accountability and adherence to federal standards in law enforcement.