UPDATED 1:17 P.M.

Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – A three-member panel of the Illinois Prisoner Review Board Friday morning voted unanimously to deny former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson an early release from prison. He had sought a “compassionate release” because he has cancer and, the board was told, he has perhaps eighteen months to live.

Neither Grayson nor his attorney were present; they submitted written testimony, including that he believed he was under attack by Sonya Massey. Also in writing, Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser pointed out Grayson had cancer when he shot and killed Massey.

While nobody spoke to support Grayson, four of Massey’s survivors, including both parents and one child, testified in favor of keeping Grayson in prison.

Sonya Massey’s cousin, Sontae (pictured, center), said the case is instructive. “The heinous actions of this individual have added context to much bigger conversations and have added validity to larger, concerning topics such as: qualified immunity ingrained racism and preferential treatment in policing and positions of authority”

James Wilburn (pictured, right), Sonya’s father, said he’s been asked to agree to let Grayson go home, so he can die among family and friends. “My baby didn’t have a chance to die amongst her family and friends.”

The Prisoner Review Board deliberated a short time before the vote.