Distractify reported that the incident involving Massey's demise has fuelled discussions steered by conservative commentator Candace Owens, who refuted the racial angle associated with the crime.
Reflecting the racial tension, Owens, known for her vocal conservative views, publicly proclaimed that the murder was not influenced by racial motives.
Comments Ignite Firestorm on the Internet
Owens' contentious remarks denying racial bias in the case went viral in July 2024.
She chided her detractors, accusing them of exploitatively using the incident to sway Black American sentiment.
Beyond that, she stated that unarmed white Americans have a higher chance of being shot by law enforcement in comparison to their Black counterparts, however, she did not back her claim with reference data.
This assertion by Owens is directly contradicted by various scientific studies.
These studies unanimously establish that Black Americans are statistically more susceptible to police shootings.
Rapper Cardi B conversely called out Owens, questioning her stance and peremptorily showing solidarity with the victim.
Public Backlash and a Heated Exchange
Cardi B, in an impassioned statement, criticized Owens' refusal to empathize with the victim's plight. She further warned Owens that such a tragic incident could eventually fall at her doorstep, considering her shared racial identity.
Owens, not one to back down, rapidly responded to Cardi B's accusations with a follow-up video posted on July 25.
In the swirl of these public exchanges, the man at the eye of the storm, Deputy Sheriff Sean Grayson, pleaded not guilty.
Grayson maintains his innocence against stern accusations including charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery using a firearm, and official misconduct.
His case continues to serve as a touchstone for the ongoing debate on racial prejudice.
Owens defended her stance stating, "Police officers are human beings; there are mistakes that happen,” and further denounced the rising belief that, "now you’re going to use this situation … To then try to make Black Americans believe that this happened simply because she was Black, is pointedly ridiculous."
Cardi B voiced her disagreement, telling Owens: "Girl, shut up," and raised accusations about Owens' uncaring attitude, asking, "You don’t feel one little bit of empathy, a little bit of sympathy of how this woman died?"
Conclusion
The Sonya Massey incident has fomented a widespread debate surrounding racial prejudice.
The alleged influence of racial bias, coupled with Candace Owens' vehement disagreement and the musical artist, Cardi B's public criticism, have projected this case onto a national stage.
Despite Deputy Sheriff Sean Grayson's plea of not guilty, the incident continues to fuel discussions on racial disparities within the criminal justice system.
