Massachusetts man granted parole with conditions after fatally shooting relative in the head

A southeastern Massachusetts man has been granted parole with conditions after murdering a relative.

 According to the Parole Board, on December 11, 2002, at approximately 8:00 p.m., 26-year-old Kevin Haliday went to 402 Bearse’s Way in Hyannis. When Haliday arrived, his cousin, Daniel Mendes, was on the phone. At some point, they both entered a bedroom and started talking. After a witness heard a loud noise, Haliday exited the bedroom and left the residence. The witness went into the bedroom and saw Mendes holding his head where he had been shot. Police were called, but Mendes eventually died from a single gunshot wound to his head. Haliday was arrested that same day. 

On November 16, 2004, in Barnstable County Superior Court, Haliday was convicted of murder in the second degree for the death of Mendes. He was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole. Haliday was also convicted of possession with intent to distribute Class B and received a sentence of 9 to 10 years, to run from and after the life sentence. Additionally, Haliday was convicted of possession of a firearm without a license and was sentenced to 4 to 5 years, to run concurrently with the second-degree murder conviction. Parole was denied following an initial hearing in 2017.

The Board stated that Haliday engaged in a forensic mental health evaluation as recommended by the Board. The evaluation was conducted by Dr. Dicataldo. He also engaged in an evaluation provided by Nancy Moniz, LISCW, who informed the Board of his re-entry needs and how to access services. The Board considered both evaluations in rendering its decision. Haliday completed 6 programs since his last hearing. He has remained disciplinary report free and has been sober for more than a decade. Haliday appeared to have gained insight into the precipitants of his offense and has engaged in treatment to address his needs. Haliday was pursuing college courses prior to the offense. He has employment skills and a significant support system. Haliday presented as motivated for continued treatment in the community and has supports to assist him with his re-entry needs. The Board considered public testimony in rendering its decision. Haliday’s mother and aunt spoke in support of parole. Mendes’ sister, brother and aunt spoke in opposition to parole. The Board concluded by unanimous decision that Haliday has demonstrated a level of rehabilitation that would make his release compatible with the welfare of society. 

Conditions of Haliday’s parole include: Release to other authority: Interstate Compact Alabama; Waive work for 2 weeks; Must be home between 10 PM and 6 AM; Electronic monitoring for 6 months, if receiving state agrees; Supervise for drugs; testing in accordance with Agency policy; Supervise for liquor abstinence; testing in accordance with Agency policy; Report to assigned MA Parole Office on day of release; No contact with victim(s) or victim’s family; Must have mental health counseling for adjustment, anxiety, and relapse prevention.