SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. – the lead sponsor of some of the state’s most comprehensive criminal justice reforms – released the following statement upon reviewing the body camera footage of the shooting of Sonya Massey by a Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy:

“I am angry, frustrated, disgusted and disheartened that another innocent Black life was taken unjustly. As I watched this very painful exchange my heart ached for Ms. Massey’s family, friends, and the entire Springfield community, particularly its Black residents who simply want to be treated fairly and equitably. No person should ever have to fear that calling for help will end in death.

“We have taken steps to increase transparency, require body cameras to be worn and ensure dangerous individuals remain detained – all steps which have swiftly led us toward the first steps of justice for Sonya Massey. Nothing we do will bring Ms. Massey back, but we must take steps to find justice for her and her family. We must hold the former officer accountable as we push for answers to find out why he was hired in the first place, so it doesn’t happen again.

“I stand with Sonya Massey’s family, friends and the entire Springfield community as they mourn this tremendous loss and call for justice.”