Erik Menendez had his parole denied after a hearing that lasted all day Thursday in California. The 54-year-old man, convicted alongside his brother Lyle for the murder of their parents in 1989, was still considered a risk to public safety, as determined by the state’s Parole Board.
PUBLICIDAD
After 10 hours of session, Commissioner Robert Barton justified the decision by stating that, despite believing in redemption, legal rules prevent their current release. “Menendez will be able to reapply for parole within three years,” reported NBC News.
PUBLICIDAD
The denial occurred three months after a judge in Los Angeles concluded that Erik and his brother did not pose an “unreasonable risk” and sentenced them again to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole. This ruling overturned the previous sentence that excluded this possibility and enabled the so-called “suitability hearings.”
On the other hand, 57-year-old Lyle Menendez is scheduled to appear before the board this Friday.
The Menendez family continues to support Erik
After learning about the panel’s decision, the brothers’ relatives expressed their respect, although they did not hide their disappointment. In a statement released on Thursday night, they pointed out that they will continue to support Erik. They highlighted his remorse, personal growth, and the positive influence he has had within the prison system.
During the hearing, Barton explained that, despite recognizing the so-called “factors of young offenders,” such as the fact that Erik was 18 years old at the time of the crime, other elements such as his behavior in prison and actions before and after the murder played against him. Among them, he mentioned attempts to cover up, the improper use of a cell phone, and violations of the prison center’s rules.
Menéndez participated in the hearing via video call from the Richard J. Donovan State Prison, located in San Diego County. During his intervention, he offered a critical description of himself at the time of the crime, admitting to being impulsive, a liar, and lacking moral guidance. He claimed to have feared sexual abuse from his father, José Menéndez, on the night of the murders.
When asked why he also shot his mother, Kitty, whom he had described as a victim, he responded that she had shown loyalty to her husband at all times.
A media case that resurfaces strongly
The Menendez brothers became known worldwide for the murder of their parents in their Beverly Hills home. During the trials in the 90s, they argued that they acted in self-defense due to years of abuse, but the prosecution maintained that the crime was brutal and premeditated, for financial gain. One of the examples cited is that Lyle allegedly reloaded his gun before shooting his mother in the face.
Barton described the murder of Kitty Menendez as lacking in compassion and directly asked Erik if he believed any part of the crime had been committed in self-defense. Erik denied that possibility.
The case regained public attention in the last year thanks to a series on Netflix and the support of some recognized figures.
Despite the setback, Erik and Lyle Menendez still have other avenues open to try for their release. A request for clemency is still ongoing before the governor of California, Gavin Newsom, and a formal petition to overturn their sentences.