After spending 35 years behind bars for the brutal murder of their parents, Erik and Lyle Menendez were gearing up for a chance at parole.
But their hopes have been pushed back again, putting freedom even further out of reach for the brothers.
Originally scheduled to appear before the parole board in mid-June, the hearing has now been postponed until late August.
Sentence Reduced but Parole Still a Tough Road Ahead
Last week, the Menendez brothers appeared in court in Los Angeles, where a judge reduced their sentences from life without the possibility of parole to 50 years to life.
This change is significant because it opens the door for the brothers to apply for parole under California’s youthful offender law, which considers crimes committed by people under 26 differently.
Still, the delay means they will have to wait at least nine more weeks before any parole decision can be made.
Clemency Hearing Also Put on Hold
In addition to the parole hearing, the brothers were also supposed to find out if Governor Gavin Newsom would consider granting clemency.
However, that decision has been postponed along with the parole hearing.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation hasn’t provided a reason for the delay, leaving many questions unanswered.
The Tragic Crime and Its Aftermath
Back in 1989, the brothers, then 18 and 21 years old, shot and killed their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in their Beverly Hills home.
The crime shocked the nation, especially because the parents were a prominent entertainment executive and his wife.
The prosecution argued the brothers acted out of greed, hoping to inherit millions.
The defense, however, painted a very different picture — claiming the brothers were victims of years of sexual abuse by their father, which pushed them to desperate measures.
Family Support and Public Reactions
The brothers have gained some support from family members, many of whom testified on their behalf during resentencing hearings.
One cousin said the family had “universally forgiven” them after all these years.
Lyle Menendez himself spoke candidly in court, expressing deep remorse for what he did, admitting he has no excuses but asking for a second chance.
New Evidence and Perspectives on Abuse
During the hearings, several relatives and witnesses testified about the abuse the brothers endured.
One cousin shared how she recently brought her young son to meet them in prison, believing they could contribute positively to society if released.
Another witness recalled strict and frightening rules in the Menendez household, hinting at the abuse the brothers reportedly suffered.
Officials Divided on Resentencing
The path to parole hasn’t been smooth. Former Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón supported reducing their sentences, citing modern understandings of trauma and sexual abuse, as well as the brothers’ rehabilitation behind bars.
The brothers have earned education credits, participated in therapy, and started support groups in prison.
But current District Attorney Nathan Hochman disagrees, saying the brothers haven’t fully admitted to their crimes and questioning the abuse claims.
He believes they’re not ready for parole yet, emphasizing the importance of complete accountability.
A Case That Captivated the Nation
The Menendez trial was a media sensation, with two high-profile court battles.
The first ended in a hung jury; the second convicted the brothers without allowing much evidence about the abuse allegations.
The recent Netflix drama and true crime documentaries have renewed interest in the case, showing the complexity behind the brothers’ actions and their troubled past.
Spending Spree That Raised Suspicions
Shortly after their parents’ deaths, the brothers began spending large sums of their inheritance, which raised eyebrows.
Lyle bought luxury items and restaurants, while Erik hired a tennis coach.
Their lavish lifestyle after the murders contributed to the police suspicion that ultimately led to their arrests.
Erik’s Personal Struggles Highlighted in New Documentary
In recent interviews, Erik Menendez has spoken openly about the trauma he faced growing up.
He described how the pain and abuse made life unbearable and even talked about thoughts of suicide.
Yet, he felt trapped by loyalty and fear, which adds another layer to the tragic story.