Erik and Lyle Menendez were resentenced on Tuesday to 50 years to life in prison, which makes them eligible for parole — the latest step in a years-long battle for the brothers trying to get released after 35 years behind bars.
The parole process will be long and could take years.
Erik and Lyle Menendez were initially sentenced to life without the possibility of parole for the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez. They have the support of over 20 family members in their efforts to be freed.
After the resentencing, Erik Menendez released a statement on Tuesday night, saying, “I am touched and humbled by the outpouring of support.”
Earlier Post –
Several cousins of Erik and Lyle Menendez testified during the brothers’ resentencing hearing, advocating for their release after nearly 30 years in prison for the double murder of their parents. The brothers, appearing via livestream, showed little emotion but reacted lightly when one cousin mentioned Erik’s A+ grades in college.
A Los Angeles judge is overseeing the hearing, which may last two days. If the judge reduces their sentences, the brothers would require approval from the state’s parole board to be released, potentially allowing them to go free on time served.
The Menendez brothers were sentenced to life in prison without parole in 1996 for the 1989 murders of their parents in Beverly Hills. Defense attorneys argued self-defense due to alleged sexual abuse by their father, while prosecutors claimed the brothers sought a multimillion-dollar inheritance.
The hearing faced delays due to wildfires and disputes between prosecutors and defense attorneys. The case has remained a topic of public interest, revitalized by recent media portrayals, leading supporters to attend rallies and hearings.
The judge emphasized that prosecutors must demonstrate the brothers pose an “unreasonable risk” of committing further violent crimes if released. Testimony from family members indicated a belief that the brothers have shown remorse and deserve release, with one cousin stating that the family universally forgives them.
The resentencing will focus on the brothers’ rehabilitation in prison and whether they qualify for a lesser sentence under California’s youthful offender law. Their defense attorney is advocating for a reduction of their charges to manslaughter and immediate release based on time served.
Previous LA County District Attorney George Gascón had supported a reevaluation of the brothers’ sentences, citing shifts in understanding regarding trauma and abuse. In contrast, current District Attorney Nathan Hochman argues against their release, stating they have not fully accepted responsibility for their actions and referencing recent rule violations in prison as evidence of ongoing behavioral issues.
