Introduction to the Case
Lyle and Erik Menendez are eligible for parole after more than 30 years in prison for the shotgun murders of their parents at the family’s Beverly Hills mansion, according to a resentencing ruling from a judge in Los Angeles.
Background
A judge resentenced the brothers to 50 years to life in prison, which would make them eligible for parole. The state parole board would still need to consider the case and issue a ruling on whether to release them from prison, which would likely take weeks or months to complete.
What to Know
- A judge resentences Erik and Lyle Menendez to 50 years to life, which makes them eligible for parole.
- The state parole board would need to consider the case and issue a ruling on whether to release the brothers from prison.
- Hearings on a resentencing motion in the case were scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday in Los Angeles, but witness testimony wrapped up in one day.
- The brothers spoke during the hearing on a video feed from prison.
- Attorneys for the Menendez brothers argued they have been rehabilitated after serving more than 30 years of a life prison sentence for the August 1989 murders of their parents in Beverly Hills.
- The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office presented the case against resentencing, arguing the Menendez brothers have not taken full responsibility for their crimes.
The Resentencing Hearing
Judge Michael Jesic made the decision after a day of testimony from family members who described the changes they’ve seen in the brothers and their hopes for the future. The testimony, at times emotional, was part of a scheduled two-day resentencing hearing.
The brothers gave statements via videolink immediately after the judge’s ruling, with Lyle Menendez saying he made no excuses for the murders. He admitted to making a "mockery of the legal system" after his arrest by seeking to have people perjure themselves on his behalf.
"Today, 35 years later, I am deeply ashamed of who I was," he said.
Family and Support
Family members spoke outside the San Fernando Valley courthouse.
"We have to go through the parole process, which is going to be very difficult for the family," Anamaria Baralt, one of the brothers’ cousins who testified Tuesday. "We will eagerly step through those doors if that means getting them home."
Defense and Prosecution
Attorneys for Erik and Lyle Menendez, ages 54 and 57, argued Tuesday that they have been rehabilitated after serving more than 30 years of a life prison sentence for the August 1989 murders of Jose and Mary Louise "Kitty" Menendez. The brothers have obtained an education, participated in self-help classes and started support groups for other inmates in prison.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office argued the case against resentencing. Prosecutors allege the murders were carried out due to acquire their parents’ money.
Testimonies and Evidence
Baralt was the first witness at the resentencing hearing.
"Thirty-five years is enough," she said. "They are universally forgiven by the family."
During cross examination, Baralt said pain was caused by the brothers’ actions, but that she has long forgiven them.
The Menendez brothers claim the killings were committed after years of abuse, including alleged sexual abuse by their father.
Conclusion
The case of the Menendez brothers has been a long and complex one, with arguments for and against their resentencing. The decision by Judge Jesic to resentence them to 50 years to life, making them eligible for parole, marks a significant turning point in their case. The state parole board’s decision will be the next step in determining their future.
FAQs
- Q: How long have the Menendez brothers been in prison?
- A: The Menendez brothers have been in prison for more than 30 years.
- Q: What was the outcome of the resentencing hearing?
- A: The judge resentenced the brothers to 50 years to life in prison, making them eligible for parole.
- Q: What is the next step in the process?
- A: The state parole board will consider the case and issue a ruling on whether to release the brothers from prison.
- Q: Did the brothers show remorse for their actions?
- A: Yes, Lyle Menendez expressed deep shame for his actions and admitted to making a "mockery of the legal system" after his arrest.
- Q: What are the conditions for the brothers’ potential parole?
- A: The state parole board’s decision will depend on various factors, including the brothers’ behavior in prison and their potential risk to the community.
