Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Illinois law makes it possible for someone imprisoned to get out if they’re, essentially, dying, so they don’t have to do so behind bars.

That’s what former Sangamon County Sheriffs Deputy Sean Grayson — suffering from cancer — is trying, despite serving only months of a 20 year prison sentence for the death of Sonya Massey two years ago.

Sonya’s cousin Sontae tells the WTAX Morning Newswatch Grayson needs to do the time, since he did the crime.

“There’s an uphill battle there,” said Sontae Massey.  “We rely on our faith. We’re relying on people that have faith to just kind of join us and make sure that he serves the time that he deserves.”

It’s that faith that, Sontae says, he’s carried the family through the last two years, and that has carried him through continuing to talk to Sonya.

“I think it’s important to note that while this has been pretty tragic to everyone involved, including our community, our community has really stepped up and reached out, and has been a big part of our healing,” said Massey.

Sontae Masseyt says a hearing at the Prisoner Review Board at the end of the month is disappointing already, because it’s expected to be closed to the public.