First-Degree Murder Trail Against Ex-Cop Sean Grayson Begins
CBS News reports that opening statements began Wednesday morning in a trial that was moved to Peoria County, Ill., in an effort to get a “fair” trial after the highly publicized shooting. It was also noted that snipers are located on top of the roof of the courthouse and security is extremely tight. With the rise in public executions, the extra effort to ensure that no violence takes place during the proceedings is warranted and appreciated.
Here's the part that's underappreciated and, to say the least, quite disappointing: The 12-person jury for the trial was chosen Monday, consisting of nine men and three women, and only one of these 12 people is Black. Exactly. One. CBS also reports that the judge agreed to drop the lesser charges against Grayson, aggravated battery and official misconduct, and only the murder charges will be assessed.
According to NBC NewsThe family's lawyers released a statement when the trial was set to begin:
“The family of Sonya Massey continues to grieve her senseless death, but is also fiercely committed to being present at the trial as they continue to hope for full justice for Sonya.”
Earlier this year, the Massey family was awarded $10 million by Sangamon County in a lawsuit. We've said it before and we'll say it again – right now, nobody pays millions of dollars for something they're 100% not guilty of. That said, we hope and pray that the jury in this case rules in favor of Sonya Massey's life, and sends her killer to prison for the rest of his days.
