It has been updated from an original version to include comments from Sonya Massey’s family and Sean Grayson’s statements in court. By DEAN OLSENILLINOIS TIMESdolsen@illinoistimes.comA Sangamon County judge on Thursday gave former Sangamon County Sheriff’s Deputy Sean Grayson the maximum sentence — 20 years in prison — for the July 2024 murder of Sonya Massey, culminating a nationally publicized case that led to ongoing discussions and action locally to bridge racial divides. Members of Massey’s family, who were calling for the maximum sentence possible and were disappointed with the jury’s second-degree murder verdict, said they considered the 20-year sentence a victory. James Wilburn, Sonya Massey’s father, said he wants to see the Illinois General Assembly lengthen the maximum sentence for second-degree murder. Grayson’s lawyers, who recommended the judge give Grayson a six-year sentence, indicated they will appeal the sentence to a higher court.