An expert in police training, including use of force, testified on Thursday that Sonya Massey did not pose a threat to deputies responding to a call to her Springfield home, and then-sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson “escalated the situation” with his behavior.
Louis Dekmar also testified that “it should have been clear” to Grayson that Massey was dealing with an “emotional or mental crisis,” which should have led him to calmly ask open-ended questions.
Grayson is on trial for first-degree murder for fatally shooting Massey in July 2024.
Forensic pathologist Dr. Nathaniel Patterson testified Massey had a chance to live if the bleeding from the gunshot wound to her face had been brought under control in a more timely manner.
Grayson’s partner testified on Wednesday that Grayson did not follow policy of rendering aid to Massey. The trial continues for a third day today.
