Menendez brothers resentencing can proceed despite DA opposition, judge rules in California court

A judge allows Erik and Lyle Menendez to continue their resentencing bid, possibly making them eligible for parole.

A California judge has ruled that the resentencing hearing for Erik and Lyle Menendez may proceed, despite opposition from Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman. The decision allows high-profile hearings next week to continue, potentially reducing the brothers’ sentences and making them eligible for parole.

The Menendez brothers were convicted in 1996 of murdering their parents in their Beverly Hills home in 1989. They are currently serving life without parole. Their legal team is seeking resentencing under a California law that allows inmates under 26 at the time of their crimes to request reduced sentences, citing brain development during young adulthood.

According to BBC News, the brothers seek a 50-to-life sentence, which would make them eligible for parole after over 30 years behind bars. Prosecutors argue they have not fully accepted responsibility and continue to deflect blame.

Both Erik and Lyle appeared via video from prison during the recent hearing. Prosecutors detailed the crime, while the brothers appeared tense, occasionally rocking in their chairs or looking down. Deputy District Attorney Habib Balian criticized former DA George Gascón. He called Gascón’s support for the resentencing politically motivated, noting it was announced just before the November election.

Defense attorney Mark Geragos said the DA’s office is focused on relitigating the past, ignoring the brothers’ progress in prison. He said they have completed education programs and helped launch rehabilitation efforts for disabled, elderly, and traumatized inmates.

The judge ruled there was no new evidence to block resentencing and stressed the need for consistency across changes in leadership.

In addition to resentencing, the brothers are seeking clemency from Governor Gavin Newsom, who ordered a risk assessment ahead of a June 13 parole hearing. Hochman’s office has rejected their third option: a new trial.