Lyle and Erik Menendez have been denied parole, despite a recent legal victory and widespread support for their release.
On Friday, 57-year-old Lyle was rejected by a California parole board, one day after his younger brother Erik faced the same fate at his own hearing. The brothers, who have spent nearly 35 years behind bars, had been considered for release following a May decision that reduced their sentences, making them eligible for review for the first time.
During Thursday’s session, parole commissioners pointed to Erik’s repeated cellphone violations as evidence that he was not ready for release. Commissioner Robert Barton told him, “Contrary to your supporters’ beliefs, you have not been a model prisoner,” calling his behavior “selfish” and “disturbing.” Erik, who appeared shaken by the remarks, was ordered to remain in custody for at least three more years. Barton continued, “Two things can be true. They can love and forgive you, and you can still be found unsuitable for parole.”
The Menendez brothers were convicted in 1996 for the brutal 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, inside the family’s Beverly Hills mansion. Prosecutors have long claimed the two were driven by a desire for money and a lavish lifestyle, while defense attorneys claimed years of sexual abuse at the hands of their father pushed them to act. They also claimed Kitty was aware and failed to act.
Skepticism continues to surround their motives. No matter the truth, the brothers will remain incarcerated.
