Overview
- Opening statements are expected as early as Wednesday, with proceedings projected to last one to two weeks and no cameras allowed in court.
- Sean Grayson is charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct, facing up to life in prison if convicted of the top count.
- Body-camera video released by state police is central, showing a confrontation over a pot of hot water before Grayson fired three times, as prosecutors call the force unjustified and the defense claims self-defense.
- Pretrial rulings limit what jurors will hear about Massey’s prior mental-health history and parts of Grayson’s disciplinary record, and footage captured after the shooting will be allowed.
- Security around the Peoria County Courthouse has been tightened as demonstrators gather, and the case has already spurred a new Illinois law requiring broader background disclosure for police hires and a $10 million civil settlement with Massey’s family.