The Menendez brothers, Erik and Lyle, will have to wait a little longer to find out if they might one day leave prison. A judge announced that the decision about their potential release has been pushed to next year.
This case dates back to 1989 when the brothers shocked the nation by killing their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in their Beverly Hills mansion. Prosecutors argued they did it for the money, but the brothers said they were defending themselves after years of abuse by their father. After a mistrial in their first trial, they were eventually convicted and sentenced to life in prison without parole.
Now, over 30 years later, Los Angeles County prosecutors are asking for a new sentence. They believe the brothers deserve a second chance because of their good behavior in prison, evidence of rehabilitation, and new details about the abuse they say they endured.
What Happened This Week?
The brothers’ legal team has been fighting for their freedom, filing a petition earlier this year to revisit their case. They even have support from LA’s District Attorney, who suggested a new sentence that could make them eligible for parole. But at a hearing this week, the judge said he needed more time to go through all the evidence. So, the big decision will now happen on January 30.
Who’s Supporting the Menendez Brothers?
The brothers aren’t fighting alone. Their extended family is on their side. Two of their aunts, both in their 80s, showed up to speak on their behalf. They said they’ve stayed in touch with Erik and Lyle over the years and believe the brothers suffered terrible abuse from their father.
One of the aunts, Joan Andersen VanderMolen, said what the brothers went through was “unconscionable.” Another aunt, Teresita Baralt, who was close to the family, spoke through tears, saying, “We miss those who are gone, but we miss the boys too.”
What Will the Judge Consider?
The judge will be looking at new evidence that wasn’t available during the original trials. This includes a letter Erik wrote in 1988 to his uncle, describing the abuse he suffered. The letter wasn’t mentioned in court back then, and it only came to light years later.
There’s also testimony from Roy Rossello, a former member of the Latin pop group Menudo. He claims that Jose Menendez sexually abused him when he was a teenager. Rossello shared his story in a recent documentary and provided a written statement to support the brothers.
On top of this, the judge will likely review the brothers’ time in prison. Both Erik and Lyle have earned college degrees behind bars, stayed out of trouble, and even started programs to help others. Prosecutors pointed out that Lyle hasn’t been involved in a single fight during his three decades in prison.
What Happens Next?
The decision doesn’t just rest with the judge. California Governor Gavin Newsom could also step in. He has the power to grant clemency, but he’s waiting for input from the new Los Angeles District Attorney, Nathan Hochman, who takes office soon. Hochman says he plans to carefully review all the evidence before weighing in.
For now, the Menendez brothers, their family, and supporters will have to wait until the new year to see what the future holds. Whether they get a second chance or not, their story continues to capture public attention decades after that tragic night in 1989.
