Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced Monday that he opposes the resentencing of Lyle and Erik Menendez, citing their repeated dishonesty about the motive behind their parents’ 1989 murders.
Hochman stated that his decision was based on whether the brothers had taken full responsibility for their past lies, including initially denying involvement in the killings. He argued that their claim of self-defense contradicts evidence showing premeditation and an attempt to stage the crime as a gang-related hit.
Hochman compared their case to that of Sirhan Sirhan, who assassinated U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy in 1968, noting that despite support and a low-risk inmate status, Sirhan was denied parole due to an ongoing public safety risk. He emphasized that the Menendez brothers must fully admit their past deception before resentencing can be considered.
While acknowledging their rehabilitation efforts, including earning advanced degrees, Hochman maintained that their lack of full accountability prevents him from supporting resentencing. However, he left the door open for reconsideration if they openly acknowledge their lies.
Family members and supporters of the Menendez brothers strongly disagreed with Hochman’s stance, arguing that the siblings have shown remorse and changed over the past three decades. The Justice for Erik and Lyle Coalition criticized Hochman’s insistence on a “checklist” of apologies for actions taken under trauma.
A resentencing hearing is scheduled for later in March, following former DA George Gascón’s previous recommendation for a reduced sentence, which Hochman dismissed as politically motivated.
In addition to pursuing resentencing, the brothers have applied for clemency from Governor Gavin Newsom, who has asked the state parole board to assess whether their release would pose a public safety risk.
Newsom has yet to comment on Hochman’s recent statements.
