Menendez brothers resentenced to 50 years to life, making them eligible for parole

Menendez Brothers Resentenced, Now Eligible for Parole; Lawyer & Family React Outside Courthouse

The Menendez brothers have had their sentence changed to 50 years to life in prison, making them eligible for parole after being in prison for over three decades for murdering their parents years ago. Erik and Lyle Menendez were serving life sentences with no chance of parole for the killings of their parents in 1989. The brothers argued that they acted in self-defense after enduring years of alleged abuse by their parents.

The case will now move to the California Board of Parole Hearings before reaching the governor’s office for final approval. Mark Geragos, the brothers’ lawyer, expressed gratitude to Judge Michael Jesic for the decision, calling it a significant moment in the criminal justice system.

After spending 35 years in prison, Erik and Lyle Menendez’s relatives expressed joy following the judge’s ruling. The Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, who opposed resentencing, described the decision as pivotal with significant implications for justice and the community.

The resentencing petition was filed by the Menendez brothers’ appellate attorneys in 2023, citing new evidence supporting their claim of abuse and seeking a reduced sentence. The state parole board will conduct separate hearings for Erik and Lyle Menendez to determine their eligibility for parole.

During the resentencing hearing, family members testified in support of the brothers’ release, emphasizing their transformation and rehabilitation while incarcerated. The decision to resentence the Menendez brothers has sparked debate and highlighted shifts in the justice system since the 1990s.

Chelsea Hylton is a web producer for CBS Los Angeles, covering local breaking news in Southern California. She has a background working at various news outlets in Los Angeles and Seattle.