Los Angeles County DA to Recommend Resentencing of Lyle and Erik Menendez Brothers
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office will recommend the resentencing of Lyle and Erik Menendez, the brothers who murdered their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in 1989. The move comes after new evidence was uncovered, suggesting that the brothers were sexually abused by their father, and the district attorney believes they have paid their debt to society.
“I believe under the law, resentencing is appropriate,” said Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón. “I believe they have paid their debt to society.” The brothers will not be present during the court hearing on Friday, according to Gascón.
If the judge agrees with the district attorney’s office, the brothers would be eligible for parole immediately, considering they were under the age of 26 when they committed the crime. Gascón highlighted the brothers’ claims of being sexually abused by their father and their engagement in rehabilitation and redemption, likening their case to that of women in abusive relationships.
Why is it happening?
New evidence, including a letter written by Erik to a cousin about the sexual assault prior to the murders, and a signed declaration by a member of the popular 1980s Puerto Rican boy band Menudo that he too was sexually assaulted by Jose Menendez, support the brothers’ claims. Gascón’s office also considered the brothers’ early start to their sentences with no potential threat to society.
What’s next?
The final decision rests with the judge, not the district attorney. However, the DA’s recommendation can help the defense. Mark Geragos, the attorney for Erik and Lyle Menendez, expressed cautious optimism about the possibility of the brothers being released.
Pushback against possible resentencing
Critics argue that Gascón is trying to leverage media attention ahead of the November election. A September poll showed Gascón was trailing his challenger, Nathan Hochman, by 24 points. The Los Angeles Association of Deputy District Attorneys also criticized the move as opportunistic, calling Gascón’s tenure as DA “disastrous” and prioritizing celebrity cases over victims’ rights.
### Conclusion
The resentencing of Lyle and Erik Menendez remains a contentious issue, with the district attorney recommending their release due to new evidence and their rehabilitation. While the decision is ultimately up to the court, it is a complex case that highlights the importance of carefully considering the nuances of each situation.
### FAQs
Q: Why is the district attorney recommending the resentencing of Lyle and Erik Menendez?
A: The district attorney believes new evidence, including claims of sexual abuse by their father, and their rehabilitation efforts justify resentencing.
Q: Will the brothers be eligible for parole if resentenced?
A: Yes, if a judge agrees with the district attorney’s office, the brothers would be eligible for parole immediately, considering they were under the age of 26 when they committed the crime.
Q: What is the current status of the District Attorney’s report on the case?
A: The district attorney has submitted the report to the court and will make a recommendation on Friday.
Q: Who is opposed to the resentencing of Lyle and Erik Menendez?
A: Critics, including lawyer Nathan Hochman and the Los Angeles Association of Deputy District Attorneys, argue that Gascón is trying to leverage media attention ahead of the election and prioritizing celebrity cases over victims’ rights.
