Massachusetts convicted murderer who said ‘What’s up now, sucker?’ before killing man has been granted parole

The state parole board is freeing a convicted murderer who asked “What’s up now, sucker?” before he killed a man.

Nathaniel Harbin, 53 — who in 1997 was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole — has been granted parole.

During his sentencing, Harbin assaulted a prosecutor and he was criminally charged — resulting in an additional 6-month sentence to be served concurrently with his life sentence. Harbin also stabbed a fellow inmate, and he was sentenced to five years for that.

Harbin became parole eligible after the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court last year ruled that life without parole sentences are unconstitutional for “emerging adults” between the ages of 18 and 20.

The parole board granted his release despite opposition from the Plymouth DA’s office.

“As district attorney, I will always speak up for murder victims like 21-year-old Travis Powell, who no longer have a voice,” DA Timothy Cruz said. “We will continue to oppose the release of violent criminals who ignore our laws and have forever harmed innocent people in our communities.”

Back on Nov. 22, 1992, Harbin went to a house in Brockton known for its drug activity. A witness saw him open a closet door, remove a gym bag, rummage through it, and then leave.

Harbin soon returned, this time in the company of Terrance Hicks, his co-defendant. Harbin addressed Powell, who had been running the house for less than a week.

Pointing a double-barreled shotgun at Powell, Harbin asked, “What’s up now, punk?” and “What’s up now, sucker?” and then fired a blast into the wall over Powell’s head.

Seconds later, as Powell raised his arms in front of his head in a defensive posture, Harbin fired a second blast, striking him in his arm and hand, as well as his forehead.

Harbin and his co-defendant then left the apartment. Powell died almost immediately.

Harbin was apprehended almost two years later in New York.

He has been incarcerated for 30 years. According to the parole board, he has completed numerous programs to address need areas, and he has been engaged in individual therapy.

“His therapist testified as to his remarkable psychological insight, growth and self-understanding, and his internalized pro-social concern for others,” the board wrote. “Mr. Harbin has acquired occupational skills that are transferable in the community. Mr. Harbin’s LSCMI (risk/need assessment) is low… The Board notes Mr. Harbin has a strong support system. The Board concludes that Nathaniel Harbin has demonstrated a level of rehabilitation that would make his release compatible with the welfare of society.”