Originally published April 6, 2021. Statements about the law were updated in October 2026; the box below gives today’s rules.
Outcomes vary. A past result does not predict or guarantee the outcome of any other case.
A federal judge granted compassionate release to Justin Greg Groat, a testicular cancer survivor. The court pointed to his health risks from COVID-19, his family’s need for him at home, and his excellent behavior in prison.
April 6, 2021
United States v. Groat
2021 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 65194
Cancer survivor granted compassionate release
A word of caution before you read on: think carefully before filing a motion on your own. A poorly prepared motion can hurt your chances.
His charges and time served
On February 15, 2017, a grand jury charged Groat with four crimes:
- being a felon in possession of a firearm,
- possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute,
- possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and
- possession of marijuana.
As of April 2, 2021, he had served about 2 years, 4 months, and 27 days, which was over half of his statutory term.
Why the judge said yes
Groat survived testicular cancer, which likely put him at higher risk of severe COVID-19. He had already had COVID-19 once. He gave the court persuasive evidence that any “immunity [to Covid-19] seems to last [only] approximately 90 days.”
He was not vaccinated at the time, and he was around many other prisoners and staff who were not vaccinated either. Because he could likely be reinfected, the court agreed he was at risk of catching COVID-19 again.
Groat’s family also needed him. He helps care for his wife’s disabled daughter, whom he raised as his own. She needs care 24 hours a day.
Noting his exemplary behavior in prison, the court granted his request for compassionate release.
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