The man convicted of gunning down the mother, brother and nephew of singer Jennifer Hudson will spend the rest of his life in prison.

A Cook County judge gave William Balfour three life sentences.

Mr Balfour was convicted earlier this year of first-degree murder over the 2008 killings. The sentencing came after Circuit Judge Charles Burns denied a request from Mr Balfour for a new trial.

Mr Balfour faced a mandatory life sentence. Illinois does not have the death penalty.

Mr Balfour was married to Ms Hudson’s sister.

Prosecutors contend he shot the family members in a jealous rage because she was dating another man.

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