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- Menendez Brothers get unexpected news from Gov. Gavin Newsom in latest bid for freedom (mp.newsbreakapp.com)
Menendez Brothers’ Case Re-Examined After Decades Behind Bars
After more than three decades in prison for the 1989 murders of their parents, Lyle and Erik Menendez may have a chance at release. California Governor Gavin Newsom has directed the state parole board to conduct a risk assessment to determine if the brothers pose a threat to public safety. This decision follows the emergence of new evidence alleging long-term sexual abuse by their father, Jose Menendez, which the brothers claim motivated the killings.
While incarcerated, both Lyle and Erik Menendez have reportedly participated in rehabilitation programs, earned educational degrees, and mentored fellow inmates. They have also expressed remorse for their actions and built support networks advocating for their release.
Governor Newsom, speaking on his podcast, “This is Gavin Newsom,” stressed that the parole board holds the ultimate responsibility in determining if the brothers present an “unreasonable risk to public safety.” The assessment, expected within 90 days, will involve experts in public safety and forensic psychology. A hearing will follow, allowing input from the victims’ family and prosecutors.
The Menendez brothers were originally convicted in the mid-1990s. Prosecutors argued the murders were driven by greed for the family’s wealth, while the defense claimed the brothers acted in self-defense after years of abuse. However, the abuse allegations were largely dismissed during the initial trials.
Renewed interest in the case stems from a 2024 Netflix documentary and public accusations of sexual assault against Jose Menendez by former Menudo band member Roy Rosselló. A letter allegedly written by Erik Menendez to his cousin in 1988, detailing the alleged abuse, has also surfaced.
Despite this new evidence, Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman remains unconvinced. He opposes a new trial, questioning the credibility and relevance of the recent allegations. Hochman argues that even if true, the abuse claims do not justify the premeditated nature of the killings.
Family members supporting the Menendez brothers express cautious optimism about the risk assessment, hoping it will lead to clemency or parole. Legal experts, however, caution that significant challenges remain. A resentencing hearing scheduled for March 20, 2025, will be a crucial moment in deciding their fate.
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- Menendez Brothers get unexpected news from Gov. Gavin Newsom in latest bid for freedom (mp.newsbreakapp.com)