FILE - This combination of two booking photos provided by the California Department of Corrections shows Erik Menendez, left, and Lyle Menendez. (California Dept. of Corrections via AP, File)
With a long-delayed resentencing hearing approaching, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman has firmly opposed efforts by Erik and Lyle Menendez to overturn their life sentences.
Calling their claims a continuum of lies and deceit, Hochman made clear that his office does not support granting the brothers a new trial.
In a press conference, Hochman dismissed the argument that newly surfaced evidence supports their case. Specifically, he rejected the 1988 letter from Erik Menendez to his cousin Andy Cano, which allegedly detailed sexual abuse by their father. Hochman argued that the letter was not credible evidence and questioned its authenticity. He also pointed out that Cano died over 20 years ago, making verification impossible.
Quoting a former attorney for the brothers, Hochman stated that sexual abuse does not justify killing your parents.
The Menendez family quickly condemned Hochman’s comments, calling his dismissal of abuse claims abhorrent. In a statement, they accused him of reopening old wounds and ignoring crucial evidence.
Their case has gained renewed attention following the 2023 Peacock docuseries Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed and Netflix’s Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story. High-profile figures, including Kim Kardashian, have also advocated for their release.
Despite his firm stance on a new trial, Hochman has not yet made a decision regarding the upcoming resentencing hearing, stating that his office is still reviewing trial evidence and rehabilitation records. Governor Gavin Newsom has a clemency petition for the brothers on his desk but has said he will wait for Hochman’s assessment before taking action.
Adding to the legal turmoil, two Assistant District Attorneys recently filed lawsuits against Hochman’s office, claiming harassment, discrimination, and retaliation after recommending resentencing for the Menendez brothers.
With tensions rising and public interest growing, the upcoming March 20 hearing is set to be a pivotal moment in the decades-old case.
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