Case of Lyle and Erik Menendez
District Attorney Reviews Case
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon announced that his office is reviewing the case of Lyle and Erik Menendez, who were convicted of murdering their parents in their Beverly Hills mansion in 1989.
The brothers’ defense attorney, Robert Geragos, revealed that his office is set to present new evidence which could lead to their re-sentencing or outright acquittal.
Is There New Evidence?
Yes, there is.
Geragos filed two significant pieces of evidence that neither of the parties had available during the trials.
- Letter from Eric: This letter was written by Erick to his cousin, detailing the abuse he and Erik suffered at the hands of their father, Jose. The letter predates the killings.
- Declaration from Menudo Star: One of the members of the boy band Menudo, who was friends with the Menendez family, also came forward with a shocking declaration, stating that their father had molested the band members at his Beverly Hills mansion.
Are These Items Admissible in Evidence?
No, at the time of the trails, neither of these witnesses were available to present any evidence.
Role of New TV Shows?
Geragos attributes the newfound interest in the case to media coverage. There have been several re-examinations of the case on networks such as Netflix. With the increased attention, law enforcement and the courts take the new evidence seriously this time.
Potential Timeline
The DA’s resentencing hearing is scheduled for November 29th, and Geragos aims for the brothers to be reunited with their family members home by the end of 2022.
Implications
If re-sentenced, Lyle and Erik would serve up to the time already taken, essentially freeing them under any circumstances.
Geragos is more interested in acquiring a positive outcome rather than a particular outcome. Two family members have requested assistance, asking the DA office to consider re-sending the brothers.
Erik and Lyle Status
Currently, they remain housed at Donovan State prison, participating in a rehab program known as the green space project. Both projects have artistic and social media skills.
