Menéndez Brothers May Be Resentenced as LA DA Considers Release Recommendation

In a major shift, Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón announced he would recommend resentencing Erik and Lyle Menéndez, potentially leading to their release after nearly 35 years in prison. The brothers, convicted in 1996 of first-degree murder for the 1989 killings of their parents, José and Kitty Menéndez, could become eligible for parole under the new recommendation.

"They have paid their debt to society," Gascón said in a press conference on Thursday, suggesting a 50-years-to-life sentence instead of their current life without parole, given the brothers' young age at the time of the crime and evidence of abuse. The proposal reflects a broader shift in public perception about the Menéndez case, with renewed attention on the abuse they reportedly endured, thanks to social media discussions and documentaries, which cast the brothers in a more sympathetic light.

Gascón's office is reviewing new evidence, including a letter written by Erik Menéndez that aligns with his abuse allegations and testimony from a former band member of Menudo, who alleged that José Menéndez, then a music executive, had sexually assaulted him. The District Attorney highlighted society’s evolving understanding of male sexual abuse, noting that the original trial may have been affected by implicit biases.

Kim Kardashian, a prominent advocate for criminal justice reform, has been vocal in supporting the Menéndez brothers’ release, citing the abuse they suffered and their commendable conduct in prison, where both have mentored others, earned degrees, and cared for elderly inmates. "They are kind, intelligent, and honest men," Kardashian wrote, urging for their release as part of their long journey toward healing.

This case has deeply divided the DA’s office, with some officials insisting the brothers remain imprisoned, while others support the release. Gascón affirmed that he believed they no longer posed a danger to society and would be eligible for parole if Judge William C. Ryan agrees to the resentencing recommendation next month.

Critics of Gascón questioned the timing of his announcement, noting his current re-election campaign, though he denied any political motivation, emphasizing his office’s consistent efforts to seek resentencing in other cases.

Family members, long-time advocates of the Menéndez brothers, expressed optimism about the decision. "This decision acknowledges the abuse my cousins endured," said Karen VanderMolen, Kitty’s niece, adding, "It is time for Erik and Lyle to come home."