An ex-police officer convicted of killing a man over a parking spot in 1996 has been granted parole.

Off-duty NYPD transit officer Richard DiGuglielmo got into an altercation with Charles Campbell in Dobbs Ferry over two decades ago. Campbell was killed after he parked in a "patrons only" spot at the DiGuglielmo's family's deli, only to go across the street.

DiGuglielmo claimed he fired his gun to protect his family. His conviction for the crime was tossed out in 2008, but was then reinstated by an appeals court in 2010.

The story sparked racial tensions because Campbell was black and DiGuglielmo, who worked in the South Bronx, is white.

Eight days ago, he appeared before a parole board for the first time. The Campbell's family attorney says they were never notified and oppose his release.

"As far as the Campbell family is concerned, yes, he served 20 years but he's never taken responsibility for what he did. He still thinks it's justified," says attorney Randolph McLaughlin.

A spokesperson for DiGuglielmo released a statement reading in part, "I wish that events didn't reach the point where I had to make a fateful decision, for that, I am deeply and forever remorseful."

DiGuglielmo's release date is set for Jan. 7, 2019. He is currently at a maximum security prison in Ulster County.