A Los Angeles judge has adjourned the Menendez brothers’ resentencing hearing until next year, delaying a decision on their potential release after over three decades in prison for the murder of their parents.
The 1989 shotgun killings of Jose and Kitty Menendez in their Beverly Hills home garnered significant public attention. Prosecutors claimed the brothers committed the crime for financial gain, while the defense argued self-defense stemming from years of alleged abuse.
Following a mistrial, the brothers were found guilty of murder and received life sentences without parole.
Los Angeles County prosecutors recently requested a resentencing, citing the brothers’ good behavior, rehabilitation efforts, family support, and new evidence pertaining to the alleged abuse.
Key aspects of the case are:
Monday’s Hearing
Judge Michael Jesic of the LA County Superior Court addressed the brothers’ plea for release.
Their lawyers initiated a habeas corpus petition in May 2023, presenting new evidence regarding alleged paternal abuse.
Following renewed public interest sparked by recent media coverage, District Attorney George Gascón proposed a new sentence of 50 years to life, potentially making them eligible for parole.
However, Judge Jesic adjourned the December 11th hearing to January 30th due to the extensive evidence requiring review.
Support for Release
Erik and Lyle Menendez enjoy the support of most of their extended family, who publicly advocated for their release last month.
Their aunts, Joan Andersen VanderMolen and Teresita Baralt, testified in court, expressing their desire for their nephews’ release and maintaining contact with them during their imprisonment.
Andersen VanderMolen described the alleged abuse as “unconscionable.”
Baralt, close to Jose and Kitty Menendez, testified emotionally about the loss of both her family members and her nephews.
Judicial Considerations
The judge will likely consider new evidence supporting the brothers’ claims of sexual abuse, much of which was excluded from the original trial.
This includes a 1988 letter from Erik Menendez to his uncle detailing the abuse and recently surfaced evidence from Roy Rossello, a former Menudo member, who alleges abuse by Jose Menendez.
The brothers’ prison records, including their educational achievements and community involvement, will also be considered.
Other Influential Parties
Prosecutors will present their arguments against the brothers’ release.
The brothers’ attorneys have sought clemency from Governor Gavin Newsom, but he deferred his decision pending review by the incoming District Attorney, Nathan Hochman.
Hochman stated that the delayed hearing allows him sufficient time to review the case thoroughly, including records, transcripts, exhibits, and consultations with relevant parties.
