‘What is a man in his 50s doing with a 21-year-old?’ Lyle Menendez splits from wife Rebecca amid rumors of a new romance

Lyle Menendez and his wife, Rebecca Sneed, have quietly ended their 21-year marriage, but she continues to play a significant role in his life, despite rumors surrounding his relationship with 21-year-old Milly Bucksey. Sneed dismissed speculation of infidelity, calling the claims “baseless,” PEOPLE has learned.

A Quiet Split but Ongoing Support

“Lyle and Rebecca have been broken up for a while,” a source told PEOPLE. Despite the separation, Sneed remains committed to helping Lyle, managing his social media accounts and assisting with his legal battles.

Sneed confirmed the split in a public statement, writing on November 21, “Guys! This is NOT a cheating scandal. Lyle and I have been separated for a while now but remain best friends and family. I am forever committed to the enduring fight for Lyle and Erik’s freedom.”

The couple wed in 2003 after a decade-long friendship, but their relationship recently ended amicably.

Lyle’s Connection with Milly Bucksey Sparks Controversy

Lyle, 56, reportedly formed a connection with Milly Bucksey, a 21-year-old college student from Manchester, England, after his split. The two began corresponding after she wrote to him in prison, and she has visited him once.

This unexpected relationship has led to criticism and speculation. “What is a man in his 50s doing with a 21-year-old?” some critics ask, with others drawing uncomfortable parallels to the Menendez brothers’ claims of abuse by their father, José Menendez.

Despite the controversy, an insider clarified that their romance is not a priority for the Menendez family, who are focused on the upcoming legal proceedings for Lyle and his brother Erik’s resentencing request.

The Brothers’ Fight for Freedom

The Menendez brothers, convicted in 1996 for the 1989 murders of their parents, José and Kitty Menendez, have consistently argued the killings were acts of self-defense following years of sexual and emotional abuse. Their claims have gained renewed attention as their legal team pushes for a resentencing hearing that could allow parole.

A judge recently postponed a critical hearing, originally scheduled for December 11, to January 30-31, citing the need to review “17 boxes” of evidence.

A Family Still Fighting

While Lyle navigates life post-divorce and his newfound connection with Bucksey, Rebecca Sneed remains unwavering in her support. Erik Menendez, who has been married to his wife Tammi since 1999, continues to stand by his brother as they await the next chapter in their decades-long legal battle.

The Menendez brothers’ story remains one of tragedy, controversy, and a relentless pursuit of justice.