A man convicted of killing his cousin on Cape Cod more than two decades ago was granted parole by the state’s parole board in a unanimous decision.
The man, Kevin Haliday, was 26 on Dec. 11, 2002. At around 8 p.m. that day, Haliday met his cousin, Daniel Mendes, at a home in Hyannis. The pair went into a bedroom and a witness reported hearing a loud noise not long after, followed by Haliday walking out.
The witness went inside and found Mendes holding his head where he had been shot. Mendes died of a single gunshot wound that day. Haliday was arrested the same day of the killing.
In November 2004, Haliday was convicted of second-degree murder as well as lesser gun and drug crimes. He was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole, with his sentences on the lesser crimes to run concurrently.
Haliday appeared before the Parole Board for the second time since his conviction this January. Since his last hearing, the board found Haliday had undertaken recommended mental health treatment and had completed six programs.
The board’s decision also notes that Haliday has been sober for a decade and has avoided discipline while in prison.
“Mr. Haliday appeared to have gained insight into the precipitants of his offense and has engaged in treatment to address his needs,” the decision reads.
Both Haliday’s mother and aunt spoke in favor of his release. Mendes’ sister, brother and aunt opposed Haliday’s release.
Haliday is set to be released to another authority in Alabama through an interstate compact, according to the decision. Other conditions of his release include a requirement that he be home between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., regular screening for drugs and alcohol and that he undergo mental health counseling.
