Prosecutors in Los Angeles have recommended resentencing for Erik and Lyle Menendez, who were convicted of killing their parents in 1989, offering a possibility of freedom after 34 years in prison.
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón proposed a new sentence of 50 years to life for the brothers, potentially making them eligible for parole immediately due to their age at the time of the crimes.
The big picture: The decision for resentencing must be approved by a judge, and eventual release would require endorsement by the state parole board.
Driving the news: While some members of Gascón’s office have opposed the resentencing move, he believes it is a necessary step under the law.
- The brothers’ extended family has been advocating for their release, asserting that in the present-day context of heightened awareness regarding sexual abuse, the brothers might not have been convicted of first-degree murder.
- A legal brief from attorneys representing Milton Andersen, the brother of Kitty Menendez, highlighted opposition to resentencing, emphasizing the brutality of the crime and suggesting that the original punishment was fitting.
State of play: The decision by Gascón comes amidst his reelection campaign, with opponent Nathan Hochman criticizing the move as a “desperate political move,” raising questions about the timing and implications for Gascón’s progressive reform policies.
- The Menendez case has recently attracted renewed attention following the release of the Netflix series “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” and allegations of abuse by former Menudo member Roy Rossello against the boys’ father, adding to the complexity of the case.
