I just do not understand why so many guys here ask questions on behalf of their "friends". Regarding your above quesiton, do you think you are too warm-hearted? As you said, "your friend" has been here for a couple of years, he(she) is sure to ask a question here by himself (herself) if he(she) is concerned about his(her) situation. If the question actually is for yourself, do not use such words as"my friend", just be strait-forwarded.
In terms of your quesiton, I happened to know one case that is exactlly as what you described. The application was finally denied.