Inmate Convicted in Detective’s Death Seeks Medical Release
William Buck, who was convicted in the 2001 shooting death of Rockford police Detective Kevin Rice, is seeking a medical release from his 60-year prison sentence due to a claimed severe, incapacitating medical condition. State officials are opposing his release…
Rockford, IL, September 23, 2026 —
William Buck, an inmate serving a 60-year prison sentence for his conviction in the 2001 shooting death of Rockford police Detective Kevin Rice, is pursuing a medical release. Buck’s request is based on a claimed severe and incapacitating medical condition.
State officials have indicated their opposition to Buck’s bid for early release. The legal proceedings surrounding this request are moving forward, with a hearing scheduled to address the matter on September 25.
The specific details regarding the nature of Buck’s medical condition have not been publicly disclosed. Similarly, the exact location of his incarceration and the specific state agencies or officials opposing his release were not detailed in the available information. The conviction stemming from the death of Detective Rice occurred in 2001, and Buck received a sentence of 60 years for the crime. The upcoming hearing is expected to provide further details on the arguments presented by both Buck’s legal team and the state’s representatives.
The outcome of this hearing will determine whether Buck’s medical condition warrants a modification of his sentence, allowing for his release from prison. The legal framework for medical releases typically involves evaluating the inmate’s health status, the severity of the condition, and the potential risks associated with continued incarceration versus release.
Story summarized from the original created by Forrest Nelson on www.rockfordnewsfirst.com, see more information here.
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