LOS ANGELES (AP) — Relatives of Erik and Lyle Menendez are speaking out against the Los Angeles district attorney’s recent decision to oppose a new trial for the brothers, who have been incarcerated for nearly 30 years for the 1989 murder of their parents. The Menendez cousins praised California Governor Gavin Newsom for ordering the state parole board to investigate the brothers’ potential risk to the public as a first step toward determining clemency.
The Menendez brothers, who were 18 and 21 at the time of the crime, were convicted of killing their mother, Kitty Menendez, and their father, Jose, and were given life sentences without the possibility of parole. Recent efforts for their release have been fueled by new evidence of sexual abuse by their father, supported by most of their extended family.
In response to District Attorney Nathan Hochman’s skepticism about the abuse allegations and the inconsistency in the brothers’ testimonies, relatives expressed disappointment. They questioned whether Hochman was considering a modern, trauma-informed approach in his decision-making process.
Tamara Goodell, a second cousin of the Menendez brothers, highlighted the positive impact Erik and Lyle have had during their incarceration. Erik initiated projects promoting nonviolent conflict resolution and meditation, while Lyle led initiatives for prison beautification and mentoring programs for inmates.
A resentencing hearing scheduled for March could potentially make the brothers eligible for parole. Hochman promised to consider the brothers’ rehabilitation in prison before making a decision. Goodell and other family members emphasized the brothers’ growth and achievements over the years, advocating for their release.
The two siblings felt deep “mense remorse” for their actions on the night they took the lives of their parents. Baralt vividly remembered a poignant statement made by Lyle in a letter dated 2006. He wrote, “I need you to understand that I realize my actions have caused your own personal tragedy, and I am aware that I can never undo it. Nevertheless, I am committed to spending the rest of my life striving to make amends.”
