Los Angeles Judge Reduces Menendez Brothers Sentences, Parole Decision Pending

Erik and Lyle Menendez, who were convicted in 1996 for the 1989 murders of their parents in Beverly Hills, have had their sentences reduced from life without parole to 50 years to life by a Los Angeles judge, making them eligible for parole under California's youthful offender law. The resentencing acknowledged their rehabilitation over 35 years in prison but left the final parole decision to the California State Parole Board, which is expected to hold a hearing soon. The brothers apologized in court for their actions and expressed remorse, while some family members and supporters advocated for their release, highlighting their changed lives and support efforts for other inmates. The district attorney’s office opposed the resentencing, arguing the brothers have not fully come clean, and prosecutors maintain that the murders were motivated by financial gain rather than self-defense. The case has drawn renewed public attention due to recent media portrayals, such as the Netflix series "Monsters," and new allegations supporting the brothers' claims of abuse have influenced the resentencing decision. Their legal team is pursuing further reductions to manslaughter charges and credit for time served, which could lead to their immediate release if granted.