In 1994, Lyle and Erik Menendez were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility for parole for the murder of their parents in one of the most publicized trials in modern history.
In the summer of 1989, Eric and Lyle Menendez murdered their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in their Beverly Hills mansion. A year later, they were both arrested for first-degree murder. In 1993, they went on trial each with their own jury. Prosecutors argued that Eric and Lyle killed their parents for financial gain, while the defense argued that they acted in self-defense after the abuse at the hands of their father. Both juries deadlocked and were declared mistrials. They then had a second trial, where both brothers were found guilty and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Recently, discussion of the Menendez brothers’ trial has resurfaced, and their case has become a popular topic again. This is partly due to a new Netflix show released about their story, Monsters. The case is now being looked at with a modern context, challenging beliefs that men cannot be victims of sexual abuse.
As more eyes are on the case, more and more people call for a retrial or release for the Menendez brothers. However, is this in the cards for Lyle and Erik Menendez?
In May 2023, the Menendez brothers filed a motion presenting new evidence that could give them a chance at a resentencing. This new evidence includes a letter written by Erik to his cousin detailing the abuse faced at the hands of his father 8 months before the murders occurred. The second piece of evidence is a statement from former boy band member Roy Rossello claiming he was also abused by Jose Menendez. This could change the perspective of the case, strengthening their motive of self-defense rather than financial gain.
In October, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced his support for a resentencing, giving the brothers 50 years to life. This resentencing would make the brothers eligible for parole immediately. “They’ve spent over 35 years in prison. If they were the Menendez sisters, they would not be in custody. We have evolved,” he continued.
This doesn’t mean they’re in the clear yet, though. In order for their freedom to be ensured, a judge has to agree with that recommendation and have a parole board approve their release. On November 25, Los Angeles judge Michael Jesic announced a delay in the hearing about a resentencing for the brothers. The hearing was pushed back in order to give the new administration time to look at the new evidence and review the case. This hearing will now take place on January 30.
Erik and Lyle Menendez have proven themselves more than deserving of being free from prison. They have both been involved in various activities in prison, like prisoner support groups and inmate governments. They have even founded a project called Rehabilitation Through Beautification, which aims to engage inmates in beautification projects such as creating murals and planting gardens as part of programs to aid in their reintegration into society. The Menendez brothers are more than just their case, and they deserve a chance at life beyond prison.
