A California judge has reopened the door to parole for Erik and Lyle Menendez, who were convicted of murdering their parents in 1989, marking a dramatic shift in one of America’s most infamous criminal cases.
At a Glance
- Judge Michael Jesic resentenced Erik and Lyle Menendez, making them parole-eligible
- Originally sentenced to life without parole in 1996 for killing their parents
- Youthful offender laws and abuse claims factored into the new ruling
- Public interest and support have surged amid new documentaries
- Final release decision lies with California’s parole board and Governor Gavin Newsom
Court Ruling Reopens a Notorious Case
The infamous Menendez brothers, once sentenced to life without parole for the 1989 murders of their parents, may now walk free after more than three decades behind bars. On Monday, Los Angeles County Judge Michael Jesic resentenced Erik and Lyle Menendez under California’s youthful offender statute, changing their punishment to 50 years to life. The move renders them eligible for parole, citing their young age at the time of the crime and evidence of long-term rehabilitation.
Watch a report: Menendez Brothers Resentenced
The brothers were just 18 and 21 when they gunned down José and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez in their Beverly Hills mansion, later testifying they acted out of fear after enduring years of abuse. Their initial trial ended in a hung jury, but a retrial in 1996 led to dual convictions and life without parole—until now.
Public Sentiment Shifts
Renewed attention from true crime documentaries such as The Menendez Murders and Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story has helped reshape public opinion. Supporters argue the brothers have shown profound growth and remorse. Family member Anamaria Baralt voiced her backing, saying “they are different men from the boys that they were”.
Even former District Attorney George Gascón has backed the resentencing, pointing to evolving legal standards around juvenile justice and trauma. However, not all voices are in agreement. Prosecutor Habib Balian has voiced skepticism about the brothers’ alleged redemption, arguing the gravity of their crime still warrants life behind bars.
Political Judgment Awaits
Ultimately, the brothers’ release depends on California’s parole board and Governor Gavin Newsom’s final judgment. Newsom has acknowledged the cultural firestorm surrounding the case but vowed an impartial review, stating, “That won’t bias my independent and objective review.”
Judge Jesic emphasized he was not granting freedom but offering the legal possibility of it. “I’m not saying they should be released—it’s not for me to decide,” he clarified, adding that he believes the brothers “have done enough in the past 35 years” to merit consideration.
The parole process will assess whether Erik and Lyle Menendez present any ongoing threat to society. If deemed suitable, and with gubernatorial approval, the Menendez saga could soon enter an entirely new chapter—outside prison walls.
