In recent developments within the Los Angeles legal arena, relatives of Erik and Lyle Menendez expressed discontent over the decision by the Los Angeles district attorney to challenge the possibility of a new trial for the siblings. The Menendez brothers have been serving their sentences for nearly three decades following their 1989 conviction for the murder of their parents.
This reaction from the cousins comes in the wake of California Governor Gavin Newsom’s decision to instruct the state parole board to evaluate whether the release of the Menendez brothers would pose a threat to the public, an essential step towards a potential clemency decision by the governor.
The brothers, who were 18 and 21 years old at the time, were convicted of murdering their mother, Kitty Menendez, and their father, Jose Menendez, an entertainment executive. They received life sentences without the possibility of parole. Recently, they have renewed their efforts for release, claiming new evidence of sexual abuse by their father emerged, with most of their extended family advocating for their release.
District Attorney Nathan Hochman, during a recent press conference, expressed skepticism regarding the new claims of sexual abuse and questioned the credibility of the brothers’ testimonies due to their varied explanations for the murders over time.
Jose Menendez’s niece, Anamarie Baralt, described Hochman’s decision as particularly painful, noting that the family had engaged with his office earlier to share their perspectives.
“This decision overlooks our advancements in understanding the long-term impact of abuse and the systemic issues preventing victims from speaking out,” Baralt stated. “Expecting immediate disclosure from victims disregards the complexities of trauma.”
Baralt reflected on the different relationship established with previous district attorney George Gascón and questioned whether Hochman’s decision reflected contemporary understandings of trauma.
“Is his application of the law current and trauma-informed, or is he adhering to an outdated approach that has been rejected?” Baralt asked.
Tamara Goodell, a second cousin to the Menendez brothers, conveyed disappointment over the lack of recognition for their accomplishments while in prison.
Presently in their 50s, the brothers have reportedly “built careers” while incarcerated, initiating numerous support groups and projects.
Erik Menendez is credited with launching projects such as the Alternatives to Violence initiative, aimed at promoting nonviolent conflict resolution, a support group for disabled and elderly inmates, and a 12-step meditation class.
Lyle Menendez pioneered the Green Space project to enhance prison environments with murals and landscaping, which marked a significant collaborative effort with prison administration. He also established a mentoring program for juveniles serving life sentences and created a bulletin to foster communication within the prison community.
The possibility of resentencing is scheduled for a hearing in March, potentially making the brothers eligible for parole. Hochman indicated he would update his stance soon, considering the brothers’ demonstrated rehabilitation.
Goodell and Baralt stressed that the brothers have repeatedly shown deep regret for their actions on the night of the murders.
Baralt recalled a poignant statement from a 2006 letter penned by Lyle, saying, “I need you to know that I understand my actions are your personal tragedy, and I cannot undo them, but I will dedicate my life to making things better.”
