Erik and Lyle Menendez are scheduled for a resentencing hearing on December 11, where a judge will determine if they might gain freedom after serving 34 years for the shotgun murders of their parents in 1989 at their Beverly Hills home.
This date was established by Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic following a recommendation from prosecutors for the brothers’ resentencing.
Initially, the brothers faced a mistrial due to a hung jury, but they were later convicted of murdering their parents, Kitty and Jose Menendez, and sentenced to life without the possibility of parole.
Their legal team acknowledged the killings but contended that the brothers acted in self-defense after enduring years of emotional and sexual abuse from their father. However, much of the abuse evidence was excluded during their second trial.
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón has suggested a sentence of 50 years to life, which would make the brothers eligible for parole since they were under 26 at the time of the crime. If the judge approves the resentencing, the brothers would still need the state parole board’s approval for release, and California Governor Gavin Newsom would have 150 days to review that decision.
Gascón’s recommendation took into account the brothers’ rehabilitation efforts while in prison, including their educational accomplishments and community contributions, such as a beautification program initiated by Lyle Menendez.
Family members have advocated for their release, citing the abuse they suffered. However, some, including an uncle, oppose their release, and those against resentencing may have the chance to present their arguments in court.
Additionally, the brothers have a hearing scheduled for November 25 regarding a habeas petition filed last year, which seeks to present new evidence not considered in their second trial, potentially providing another avenue for their freedom.
The need for resentencing comes after the Netflix series “Monsters: Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” renewed interest in the case.
