Menendez Brothers Resentenced, Now Eligible for Parole

After 35 years in prison for the infamous 1989 murders of their parents, Erik and Lyle Menendez are now one step closer to possible freedom. A Los Angeles judge on Tuesday resentenced the brothers to 50 years to life, replacing their original sentence of life without parole. Thanks to California law changes that account for age at the time of a crime, the Menendez brothers—who were both under 26 when they committed the murders—are now eligible to begin the parole process.

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During the court hearing, both men addressed the judge directly and took full responsibility for their actions.

“I killed my mom and dad. I give no excuses,” Lyle said. He also admitted to lying in court during their original trial and apologized to his family for years of deceit and pain. Erik echoed the same remorse, calling his actions “criminal, selfish and cowardly,” and added, “I have come a long way on this path of redemption. I will not stop trying to make a difference.”

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The judge acknowledged the severity of their crimes but said he was moved by letters from prison staff who spoke of the brothers’ leadership and good conduct. A retired judge testified during the hearing that Erik and Lyle had changed his views on inmate rehabilitation, describing them as role models who work to help other prisoners and the elderly.

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Family members, including cousin Anamaria Baralt, supported the resentencing and asked the court to consider the limited time left for the brothers to reunite with aging relatives. “Their transformation is remarkable,” she said through tears.

Despite strong opposition from newly elected Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, who attempted to withdraw the resentencing motion, the judge upheld the previous recommendation made by Hochman’s predecessor, George Gascón. Gascón praised the brothers’ rehabilitation and commitment to improving life in prison for others.

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The court also took into account a recent risk assessment prepared as part of a clemency review requested by California Governor Gavin Newsom. That report rated the brothers as a “moderate” risk if released and noted some prison violations, including illegal cellphones, though most were from years ago. Erik had one recent violation as of January 2024, while Lyle has had no incidents of violence during his incarceration.

The road ahead won’t be easy. Parole decisions often take time and involve deep review, especially in high-profile cases like this one. The brothers are also pursuing clemency separately, with their next court appearance for that case set for June 13.

While their future is uncertain, Tuesday’s ruling marks a significant change for the Menendez brothers—and a possible chance at life outside prison walls for the first time since the 1990s.

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