Judge Slashes Menendez Brothers' Sentences After 35 Years
Lyle and Erik Menendez, 1989. Photo by Orsf under CC BY-SA 4.0.
In a decision that sent shockwaves through the courtroom, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic reduced the Menendez brothers' life sentences to 50 years to life, making them immediately eligible for parole after 35 years behind bars.
Erik and Lyle Menendez, once synonymous with one of America's most sensational murder trials, are now closer than ever to walking free.
A Fast-Moving Hearing
The hearing, originally expected to stretch over two days, wrapped up in a single afternoon. Judge Jesic delivered his decision immediately after hearing from the brothers and several defense witnesses. While prosecutors fought against the resentencing, arguing that the brothers hadn't fully accepted responsibility, they ultimately chose not to present any new evidence.
Family members filled the courtroom, many weeping as Lyle and Erik addressed the court via video. Lyle Menendez emotionally admitted his actions, saying he made no excuses and took full responsibility for the deaths of his parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, back in 1989, according to WYYF4.
A Case That Gripped the Nation
Convicted in 1996, the brothers were sentenced to life without parole for the murders that rocked their upscale Beverly Hills neighborhood. At the time, Erik was 18 and Lyle was 21. Defense attorneys argued that years of sexual abuse at the hands of their father, a powerful record executive, led to the fatal confrontation. Prosecutors maintained that the killings were financially motivated, pointing to the brothers' multimillion-dollar inheritance claims.
Rehabilitation and Support
In the years since their convictions, the Menendez brothers have pursued education, joined self-help programs, and started support groups for fellow incarcerated individuals. Former LA County District Attorney George Gascón even petitioned for their sentences to be reduced, citing their rehabilitation efforts.
Judge Jesic noted he was particularly moved by a letter from a prison official who, in 25 years of service, had never before supported a resentencing recommendation.
A Divided Courtroom
While prosecutors insisted the brothers hadn't done enough to warrant freedom, defense attorney Mark Geragos countered that the purpose of resentencing is about rehabilitation, not relitigating a decades-old crime.
"We have evolved," Geragos told the court. "This is not the '90s anymore. We understand more about trauma and its long-term effects," as reported by the Associated Press.
Family support for the brothers remains strong. Their cousin, Anamaria Baralt, testified that the family universally forgave them, declaring, "Thirty-five years is enough."
Another cousin, Diane Hernandez, spoke about the abuse she witnessed in the Menendez household, describing an atmosphere of fear and control under their father.
What Happens Next?
Although their sentences have been reduced, release is not guaranteed. The state parole board will assess the brothers' cases in June as part of a clemency review ordered by California Gov. Gavin Newsom. That hearing will play a critical role in determining whether the Menendez brothers will finally leave prison after 35 years.
Geragos remained cautiously optimistic. "This isn't about excusing what happened," he told reporters after the hearing. "It's about recognizing change, redemption, and whether these men deserve a second chance at life outside those walls," according to WYFF4
The brothers' parole hearing is scheduled for June 13, 2025, and for the first time in decades, freedom feels within reach.
References: Judge Reduces Menendez Brothers' Murder Sentences, Putting Them a Step Closer to Freedom – WYFF4 | Judge Reduces Menendez Brothers' Murder Sentences – AP News
