Parole denied for man convicted in 1982 North Kingstown killing

NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. — The Rhode Island Parole Board has denied parole for a man convicted of killing a North Kingstown business owner during a robbery in the early 1980s.

The decision came Monday after family members of the victim, Zeke Harris, addressed the parole board once again.

Family opposes release for tenth time

Relatives of Harris appeared before the board for the tenth time to oppose the release of James Hughes.

Hughes was convicted of beating the 79 year old Harris to death inside his furniture store in North Kingstown, Rhode Island in 1982.

Prosecutors said Hughes had gone to the store looking for money when the fatal attack occurred.

Inmate seeking medical or geriatric parole

Hughes has spent decades in prison but has recently sought early release through medical or geriatric parole.

Under Rhode Island law, inmates may request this type of parole if they have serious medical conditions or are advanced in age. Prisoners who are 65 or older and meet certain health criteria may also qualify.

Hughes, now in his 70s, previously requested early release under the same law.

The parole board denied the request in 2025 and again this week.

Case will be reconsidered next year

According to the parole board, Hughes’ case will be reconsidered again in one year.

Family members of Harris said they plan to continue appearing before the board to oppose his release.