LOS ANGELES — Erik and Lyle Menendez will have to wait until next year for a ruling regarding their potential release from prison, more than three decades after the shocking murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez. A judge stated that a decision in this high-profile case will take additional time.
The tragic events took place on August 20, 1989, when the brothers shot and killed their parents in their Beverly Hills residence. The public was captivated by the case, which raised questions about the reasons behind such a brutal act. Prosecutors claimed the brothers had committed the murders to inherit their family’s wealth. While the defense acknowledged the killings, they contended that the brothers acted in self-defense after enduring prolonged emotional and sexual abuse from their father.
Initially met with a mistrial, the brothers were ultimately convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. Recently, however, Los Angeles County prosecutors advocated for a resentencing, citing the brothers’ good behavior and demonstrated rehabilitation while incarcerated. They have garnered support from family members, alongside the introduction of new evidence suggesting the abuse they claimed to have suffered.
During a court hearing held by LA County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic, the focus of discussion was the Menendez brothers’ appeal for freedom. Their legal team submitted a habeas corpus petition in May 2023, urging the court to assess new evidence concerning their father’s alleged sexual misconduct.
The case has regained public interest, particularly due to a Netflix drama and documentary series. Following this renewed attention, Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón proposed a new sentence of 50 years to life, a move that could render the brothers eligible for parole due to their young ages at the time of the crimes.
However, Judge Jesic announced that he could not proceed with the previously scheduled hearing on December 11, as he required more time to review the evidence thoroughly. As a result, the hearing has been delayed until January 30.
Support for the Menendez brothers continues to grow, with almost all extended family members backing their release. During the hearing, both of their aunts offered their testimony. Joan Andersen VanderMolen, the sister of Kitty Menendez, highlighted the immense suffering Erik and Lyle endured during their formative years. Teresita Baralt, the brothers’ other aunt, shared her emotional connection to the family while expressing her desire for the brothers to come home.
In light of the court proceedings, the judge is expected to weigh new evidence that reinforces the claims of abuse made by the brothers while they were growing up. It’s worth noting that much of the evidence presented during the original trial was excluded, which could play a significant role in the current evaluation of their case.
One significant piece of new evidence includes a letter written by Erik Menendez in 1988 to his uncle, in which he described the abuse he suffered. This letter was brought to light after it was mentioned in a Barbara Walters special in 2015, prompting their lawyers to realize its absence during the initial trials. Additionally, Roy Rossello, a former member of the Latin pop group Menudo, came forward with allegations that Jose Menendez had drugged and sexually assaulted him as a teenager in the 1980s. Rossello’s statements were featured in a Peacock docuseries and he has provided a sworn statement to the brothers’ attorneys.
The judge will also take into account the Menendez brothers’ conduct while in prison, including their notable educational achievements, community service contributions, and positive behavioral assessments.
Opposition to their release is expected from prosecutors who argue against clemency. The brothers’ attorneys have actively sought intervention from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who possesses the authority to grant clemency. However, Newsom has indicated his intention to wait for the incoming Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman to evaluate the case first before making any decisions. Hochman, who is set to assume office on December 2, expressed confidence that this delay would afford him sufficient time to thoroughly review the case’s extensive documentation and consult relevant parties.