Menendez Brothers Near Parole Hearings After Decades-Long Imprisonment

The Menendez brothers, Erik and Lyle, are set to present their parole cases this week after being resentenced to 50 years to life, making them eligible for parole under California's revised laws for youthful offenders. Originally convicted in 1996 for murdering their parents, the brothers have argued they acted in self-defense after enduring years of sexual and physical abuse by their father, a claim supported by psychological analysis emphasizing the impact of childhood trauma. Their parole hearings will be conducted via videoconference, where a panel will assess if they pose an unreasonable risk to society, taking into account their criminal history, remorse, prison behavior, and future plans. The process involves multiple steps, including review by a legal advisor and approval from Governor Gavin Newsom. Public perception of the brothers has shifted recently, aided by media portrayals and advocacy from family members and celebrities, highlighting their victimization and rehabilitation efforts. However, parole is not guaranteed, as the board's decision hinges on comprehensive evaluations beyond their prison conduct.