UPDATE:
The youngest of five people convicted in a 1988 arson fire that killed six Kansas City firefighters could be released from prison soon. A federal judge ruled Friday that Bryan Sheppard, who is now 45, should have his sentence reduced to 20 years in prison. Because Sheppard has already served 22 years, he could be released at any time.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
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One of the most devastating crimes to hit Kansas City could have a different outcome Friday.
PREVIOUS STORY: Resentencing starts for man serving life in prison for killing 6 Kansas City firefighters
Five people were found guilty of intentionally setting a fire that led to two explosions in November 1988.
That resulted in killing six Kansas City firefighters, the most deadly loss for the department's in history.
Defendant Bryan Sheppard is serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole, but Supreme Court rulings could give him a chance at getting out.
"It depends on the possibility of rehabilitation," criminal defense attorney Garrett Solomon said.
Solomon is an outside attorney asked for his opinion on what the judge will be looking at Friday.
Sheppard was only 17 years old, a minor, when the deadly explosion happened in 1988.
According to court documents filed by Sheppard's lawyers, the longest amount of time he should have served under current law is 10 years in prison. They're using two Supreme Court rulings to back that.
"The Supreme Court in Miller v. Alabama saw that the teenage brain is different than an adult brain," said Solomon.
He said courts started to realize that in the mid 2000s.
"A life sentence says there is no possibility of rehabilitation," he said.
Sheppard has already served more than 20 years in prison.
For the family of those killed, it's not long enough.
"All of us suffered every day for all these years," said Cassandra Mckarnin, daughter of slain firefighter Robert Mckarnin. "We hope that the punishment will match the magnitude of this crime.
Shepherd's own daughter is hoping for his release.
"I think he's done enough time. He's served his time. He's ready to come home," said Ashley Keeney, defendant Bryan Sheppard's daughter.
The court hearing is scheduled for 2 p.m.
Solomon believes the judge will look at the attorney's argument, the court rulings, possible testimony and Sheppard's steps toward rehabilitation.
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Belinda Post can be reached at belinda.post@kshb.com.
