The Los Angeles County District Attorney has withdrawn support for Lyle and Erik Menendez’s resentencing bid, with both men serving life without parole for the 1989 murder of their parents. California Governor Gavin Newsom has scheduled a hearing before the parole board on June 13 to determine if a clemency application for the brothers will move forward. This decision will be influenced by the parole board’s recommendation on the risk assessment and independent analysis of the case.
Current District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman opposes resentencing the brothers and believes they should not be released from prison. He argues that the Menendez brothers must fully acknowledge and accept responsibility for their crimes and lies before being considered for release. Despite participation in prison programs and demonstrating good behavior, Hochman stresses the importance of full insight into their actions and accepting their responsibility before any decisions are made regarding their release.
If resentenced as recommended by former District Attorney George Gascón, the brothers could be eligible for youth parole under California law due to their ages at the time of the crime and the time served. Governor Newsom has the final say on their potential release. Hochman references the case of Sirhan Sirhan to highlight the significance of accepting responsibility for crimes in parole decisions. Newsom, who hasn’t watched any documentaries or media adaptations of the case, aims to base his decision solely on the facts presented.
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