Menendez Brothers Resentenced, Now Eligible for Parole After 35 Years

In a significant legal development, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael V. Jesic has resentenced Erik and Lyle Menendez from life without parole to 50 years to life for the 1989 murders of their parents, José and Kitty Menendez. This landmark ruling makes the brothers, who have now served 35 years in prison, immediately eligible for parole.

During the resentencing hearing, family members and supporters testified, pleading for mercy and highlighting the brothers' rehabilitation during their decades of incarceration. Tamara Lucero Goodell, the brothers' cousin, was among several relatives who spoke in support of their potential release.

"This ruling makes the brothers eligible for parole after previously being sentenced to life without the possibility of release," Judge Jesic stated during the proceedings.

Both Lyle and Erik Menendez addressed the court during the hearing, expressing remorse and taking responsibility for their actions. The brothers, currently housed together at Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility, will face a parole board hearing scheduled for June 13.

The resentencing comes amid renewed public interest in the case, sparked by recent media projects including a Ryan Murphy series and Netflix documentary. The case has also seen new allegations of abuse by their father emerge, which factored into the review of their sentences.

While former Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón had supported clemency for the brothers, current DA Nathan Hochman's office opposed the resentencing. The final decision on their potential release now rests with the parole board, with California Governor Gavin Newsom expected to weigh in by June.