Taunton Murderer to Be Released on Parole

TAUNTON — A Taunton man convicted of murder after killing his friend by slashing his throat in 2006 is set to be released, after a unanimous vote from the Massachusetts Parole Board.

On Dec. 5, the state parole board voted to approve the release of 59-year-old Elvis Sherwood, who pleaded guilty in 2010 to second degree murder and unarmed robbery in the killing of 57-year-old Kenneth Burnham.

Sherwood was 42 years old in June 2006, when he stopped by his friend Burnham's apartment one night, according to the Taunton Daily Gazette.

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The newspaper reported police as saying that Sherwood tried to steal money from Burnham after the victim offered him a drink.

He slashed Burnham's throat with a knife, the Gazette reported, noting that it was the city's only homicide that year.

Sherwood was sentenced to life in prison on March 17, 2010 after pleading guilty to the charges.

After serving 12 years, he was granted parole in his first parole hearing since going to prison.

"He appears remorseful for his actions," the board noted in its decision, adding that Sherwood has only incurred two disciplinary reports in the past 12 years.

In its decision, the board also stated that Sherwood has remained sober and received treatment for mental health issues throughout his incarceration.

Bristol County prosecutors also testified that the office was not opposed to parole.

Sherwood will be released to Hanton House in Chelsea, which has programs for those with mental health and substance use disorders.

He will also be subject to drug and alcohol testing, counseling, and a curfew and electronic monitoring at his parole officer's discretion, according to the conditions of his release.