New Evidence Could Reshape Fate of Menendez Brothers in 1989 Murder Case

October 4, 2024
New Evidence Could Reshape Fate of Menendez Brothers in 1989 Murder Case
  • Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon announced a review of new evidence in the case of Erik and Lyle Menendez, who were convicted of murdering their parents in 1989.

  • A court hearing to discuss this new evidence and the potential for resentencing is set for November 29, 2023, marking over 28 years since their conviction.

  • The Menendez brothers maintain that they acted in self-defense due to a history of abuse, arguing that societal views on such issues have evolved since their original trial.

  • Gascon acknowledged that the brothers have served significant time in prison and noted that new evidence might have influenced a jury's decision if it had been available during their original trial.

  • This new evidence includes a letter from Erik Menendez discussing allegations of sexual abuse by their father, which their attorneys argue supports their claims.

  • Gascon emphasized that modern handling of sexual assault cases would likely be approached with greater sensitivity, potentially impacting the trial's outcome today.

  • He also stressed the importance of reviewing the new evidence ethically and morally, acknowledging the complexities surrounding the brothers' convictions.

  • The Menendez brothers assert that their actions were a result of prolonged emotional, physical, and sexual abuse by their parents.

  • Their case has been the subject of extensive media coverage, including a recent docuseries that raised questions about the family's dynamics and the alleged abuse.

  • Mark Geragos, one of the brothers' attorneys, expressed cautious optimism regarding the outcome of the petition for a review of their convictions.

  • Both brothers have been described as model prisoners, with Lyle recently earning a sociology degree while incarcerated.

  • If the upcoming hearing yields a favorable outcome, the brothers could either be freed or face a new trial nearly 35 years after their parents' deaths.

Summary based on 0 sources


Get a daily email with more US News stories

More Stories