Federal prosecutors said they were pleased with the high court's decision, saying Angelos' sentence was in line with the will of Congress and did not run afoul of Supreme Court precedent.

"We are pleased that the Supreme Court denied the petition," U.S. Attorney for Utah Brett Tolman said. "Congress has determined that armed drug trafficking is a particularly serious offense that warrants severe punishment."

Those close to the case say Angelos' options are very limited. Angelos has the option of appealing his sentence and conviction in a "writ of habeas corpus," but it would be reviewed by the same courts that have upheld his sentence.

Angelos' only other option is to seek clemency through a presidential pardon.

Angelos' family described him as an aspiring rap producer who is the father of two children.

"I'm just not going to accept that it's the end," said sister Lisa Angelos, who has fought to reduce her brother's sentence.

She said her family is still in shock from the news and many of them do not feel like celebrating Christmas. "I'm not accepting that it's the end," she said. "I won't, and I will do anything I can to bring him home."

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E-mail: gfattah@desnews.com