A jury had convicted Sean Grayson, who is white, of second-degree murder in October. Point phone camera hereDuring his sentencing hearing, he apologized and said he wished he could spare Massey’s family the pain he caused and bring her back. Before the October verdict, the jury was asked to consider second-degree murder as opposed to first-degree murder. According to Illinois law, second-degree murder is applicable when a person faces “serious provocation” or believes their action is justified even if the belief is unreasonable. While holding the pot, Massey asked Grayson why he was backing up.