In a historic development, the Menéndez brothers, Erik and Lyle, who have been imprisoned for nearly 35 years for the murder of their parents, may soon have a chance at freedom. Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón announced at a press conference this week that he will recommend the brothers be resentenced, a decision that could potentially lead to their release.
Gascón expressed his belief that Erik and Lyle have fulfilled their debt to society. “They have been in prison for nearly 35 years,” he stated. Instead of life without the possibility of parole, Gascón is proposing a sentence of 50 years to life. Given their young ages at the time of the crime—Lyle was 21 and Erik 18—this new sentence would make them eligible for parole consideration.
This announcement was met with celebration among family members present at the conference and a broad community of supporters on social media, including prominent advocates like Kim Kardashian. Many had long viewed the case in a light that seemed impossible to change until now.
Back in 1996, the brothers were sentenced to two consecutive life terms after a jury found them guilty of first-degree murder for the killings of their parents, José and Kitty Menéndez. The prosecution had argued they were motivated by greed, eager to secure their family’s multimillion-dollar inheritance. However, Erik and Lyle have maintained that they acted out of fear for their lives due to years of severe abuse at the hands of their father, which they claim included sexual, psychological, and physical mistreatment.
Gascón’s recent announcement to review evidence, including a letter from Erik that detailed the alleged abuse and claims by a former member of the band Menudo regarding interactions with their father, reflects a broader shift in societal attitudes towards male victims of sexual abuse. Gascón pointed out that there has been growing recognition that “both men and women can be victims of sexual assault.” He raised concerns about potential biases in how the case was prosecuted, particularly regarding perceptions surrounding male victims.
While Gascón affirmed that the brothers were responsible for their actions, he emphasized the need to consider the context of their upbringing when assessing their culpability. The current public sentiment towards the brothers has evolved, especially following the rise of social media discussions and documentaries highlighting their experiences of abuse.
Supporters like Kardashian have publicly advocated for their release, emphasizing their behavior while incarcerated, including earning college degrees and providing mentorship to fellow inmates. “I have spent time with Lyle and Erik; they are not monsters. They are kind, intelligent, and honest men,” she wrote.
Despite the mixed views within the district attorney’s office, Gascón ultimately decided to push for resentencing after considering arguments from both sides. He noted, “We’re going to recommend to court that life without the possibility of parole be removed. They will be eligible for parole immediately. I do believe the brothers were subjected to a tremendous amount of dysfunction in the home and molestation.”
Judge William C. Ryan will review this recommendation next month, and if approved, the Menéndez brothers will face the parole board. While some critics have raised concerns about the timing of Gascón’s announcement in light of his upcoming re-election, he insists the decision is rooted in justice rather than politics.
Family members have expressed hope for a positive outcome. “This decision is not just a legal matter – it is a recognition of the abuse my cousins endured, and we are grateful for the DA’s leadership in putting justice over politics,” said Karen VanderMolen, Kitty Menéndez’s niece. “It is time for Erik and Lyle to come home.”
