On May 13, 2025, a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge resentenced Erik and Lyle Menendez to 50 years to life in prison, making them eligible for parole after more than three decades behind bars. The brothers were originally convicted in 1996 for the 1989 murders of their parents, José and Kitty Menendez.
The decision by Judge Michael Jesic was based on California’s youthful offender law, which permits parole consideration for those who committed crimes before the age of 26. At the time of the killings, Erik was 18 and Lyle was 21.
During the resentencing hearing, both brothers expressed remorse. “I killed my mom and dad. I make no excuses and also no justification,” said Lyle Menendez. Erik called the murders “an atrocious act of violence against two people who deserved to live.”
Supporters of the Menendez brothers testified to their rehabilitation in prison. Both have earned college degrees and launched support programs for elderly and disabled inmates. Former inmate Anerae Brown credited the brothers with his own reform, saying, “Without Lyle and Erik I might still be sitting in there doing stupid things.”
Despite the revised sentence, parole is not guaranteed. A parole hearing is scheduled for June 13, 2025, and Governor Gavin Newsom is also reviewing a clemency petition that could affect the outcome.
Public interest in the case has surged in recent years, fueled by new documentaries and dramatizations highlighting the brothers’ claims of longstanding abuse by their father. Former L.A. District Attorney George Gascón supported the resentencing, citing modern understandings of trauma, while current DA Nathan Hochman opposed it, arguing the brothers have not fully accepted responsibility.
The final decision now rests with the California parole board and the governor.
