SPRINGFIELD, Illinois (AP) – The U.S. Department of Justice is requesting records related to the shooting of an Illinois woman who was killed by a sheriff’s deputy in her home as it investigates how local authorities treat Black residents and people with behavioral disabilities.

The government prepared a list of demands in dozens of categories in its letter to the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday.

“The Sheriff’s Office has been in discussions with relevant county agencies and has pledged to fully cooperate with the Department of Justice in the investigation,” Sheriff Paula Crouch said in a statement Friday. he said.

Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman, was killed in July at her home in Springfield, Illinois, when deputies responded to a call about a possible prowler. He was shot three times during a confrontation with a police officer.

Sean Grayson, who is white, was fired. He is accused of murder and other crimes and has pleaded not guilty.

Among many other demands, the Justice Department wants to know whether the sheriff’s office has strategies for responding to people experiencing a “behavioral health crisis.”

“The incident raises serious concerns about interactions with Black people and people with behavioral health issues,” the government said.

Sangamon County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter said the Justice Department’s review is an important step in strengthening the public’s trust in the sheriff’s office.

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