Just weeks before his upcoming parole hearing, Erik Menendez, one half of the infamous Menendez brothers, has been rushed to the hospital with a painful health condition.
The 54-year-old, who has spent over three decades behind bars, is reportedly suffering from kidney stones—a serious but common ailment that required immediate medical attention.
A Sudden Health Scare Behind Bars
According to TMZ, Erik is currently being treated at Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego.
His legal team confirmed the medical situation, although his family chose not to disclose specific details when contacted by ABC News.
Attorney Mark Geragos, who has long represented the Menendez brothers, described the condition as “serious” and suggested Erik should be considered for a medical furlough—essentially a temporary release—so he can properly prepare for his parole hearing later this summer.
Attorney Pushes for Fair Treatment Ahead of Hearing
Geragos didn’t hold back when explaining why this temporary release is important.
“He should be medically furloughed before the hearing,” he told TMZ, adding that Erik needs time to meet with his parole attorney and get fully ready.
“It’s the only fair and equitable thing to do,” he said.
With Erik’s health now a concern, his legal team hopes this might help strengthen his case—not out of pity, but in the name of basic fairness.
Revisiting a Notorious Case That Shook America
The Menendez brothers’ story is one of the most widely known criminal cases in American history.
In 1989, Erik and his older brother Lyle, then 18 and 21, were convicted of murdering their parents, José and Kitty Menendez, inside their lavish Beverly Hills mansion.
The brutal killings happened while the couple watched a movie in the family den.
Their first trial ended in a hung jury, largely because of the emotional weight of their defense: they claimed they acted in self-defense after years of horrific sexual abuse by their father and emotional neglect from their mother.
But during their second trial in 1996—where any mention of abuse was excluded—they were both convicted and sentenced to life without parole.
A Glimmer of Hope After Decades in Prison
In May 2025, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic made a major decision: he reduced the brothers’ sentences to 50 years to life, opening the door for parole eligibility.
“I’m not saying they should be released—that’s not my job,” he said. “But I do believe they deserve the chance.”
That chance will arrive soon. The brothers are expected to attend a parole hearing in late August, a moment many thought would never come.
The Role of Changing Perspectives on Trauma
One reason the tide may be shifting in their favor? Society’s evolving understanding of trauma and abuse.
Last year, former LA District Attorney George Gascón requested that a judge reconsider their case, arguing that if it were tried today—with the current awareness of child abuse and long-term trauma—the legal outcome could’ve been very different.
The petition submitted to the court highlighted how the brothers have spent the last 35 years working to rehabilitate and better themselves.
A New Life Behind Bars: Education and Growth
Proof of that rehabilitation was made very public just last month.
Erik Menendez was photographed grinning proudly as he accepted his bachelor’s degree from UC Irvine—with summa cum laude honors, no less.
That’s the highest academic recognition a student can receive.
The proud moment was shared online by his stepdaughter, Talia, who posted a series of photos showing Erik dressed in full graduation gear.
“For those who don’t know,” she wrote, “that means he graduated with the highest honors, recognizing top academic excellence.”
In the pictures, Erik stood proudly with fellow inmates, all of whom had also earned degrees—proof that he’s spent his time inside doing more than just waiting.
The Final Decision May Come From the Governor
While the parole board will soon weigh in, California Governor Gavin Newsom could also play a role.
He has the authority to grant clemency, but he’s holding off until the parole hearing takes place.
The outcome of that meeting could be a turning point—for both brothers.
What’s Next for the Menendez Brothers?
As Erik continues to recover from his health scare and prepares for his parole hearing, his legal team remains hopeful.
With renewed public interest in their case, shifting views on childhood trauma, and clear signs of personal growth, Erik and Lyle may soon get the chance at freedom they’ve spent more than three decades waiting for.
Time will tell if the justice system believes in second chances.
