The defense team for Erik and Lyle Menendez is currently pursuing at least three separate courses of action to try to get the brothers free.
One of those scenarios involves seeking clemency from the governor.
But Gov. Gavin Newsom on Monday made it clear that option will have to wait.
The governor said Monday he wants to see what new Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman wants to do about the case before he makes his own decision on the possibility of clemency.
“The Governor respects the role of the District Attorney in ensuring justice is served and recognizes that voters have entrusted District Attorney-elect Hochman to carry out this responsibility,” according to a statement from Newsom’s office. “The Governor will defer to the DA-elect’s review and analysis of the Menendez case prior to making any clemency decisions.”
Newsom also apparently discussed the case in a recent podcast episode which is expected to be released soon.
Hochman has said he plans to study the case files once he officially takes office. On Monday he reiterated that position in a statement responding to the governor’s comments.