Los Angeles — A Los Angeles judge has resentenced Erik and Lyle Menendez to 50 years to life in prison for the 1989 murders of their parents, opening the door to possible parole after more than three decades behind bars.

The brothers had been serving life without parole for the brutal killings of José and Kitty Menendez in the family’s Beverly Hills mansion. However, Tuesday's ruling by Judge Michael Jesic means they are now eligible to appear before the parole board. A hearing is already scheduled for June 13.

Jesic acknowledged the severity of the crime but also pointed to the brothers’ significant rehabilitation efforts in prison. “A horrific crime was committed,” he said, but the judge also noted it was “remarkable what the brothers have done” behind bars.

While Jesic emphasized the ruling is not a guarantee of release, he stated, “One day they should get that chance.”

The Legal Path Forward

Despite being eligible, the final decision rests with California’s parole board and Governor Gavin Newsom, who has the authority to affirm or reverse any board decision regarding convicted murderers. Newsom exercised this power in 2022 when he blocked the parole of Sirhan Sirhan, Robert F. Kennedy’s assassin.

The Menendez brothers are also seeking clemency and have filed a habeas corpus petition, arguing for a new trial based on alleged new evidence, including a 1988 letter from Erik referencing abuse by their father.

Brothers Express Remorse

Appearing remotely from prison, both brothers addressed the court and took full responsibility for their actions.

“I committed an atrocious act against two people who had every right to live, my mom and dad,” Erik said. “There is no excuse.” Lyle added, “I was immature and filled with rage. Had I trusted others to help me, I wouldn’t have committed these crimes.”

Both men expressed a desire to continue serving others, especially victims of abuse, whether inside or outside prison.

Family Testimony and Legal Debate

The hearing included emotional testimony from family members who support the brothers’ release, citing their remorse and transformation.

“We just want this to end,” said cousin Anamaria Baralt. Another cousin, Diane Hernandez, described a history of intimidation and abuse in the Menendez household and pleaded with the judge to “be merciful.”

Former LA District Attorney George Gascón had previously supported resentencing, but his successor, Nathan Hochman, strongly opposed the move. “The Menendez brothers fabricated their claims of abuse,” Hochman said, arguing they have yet to fully come clean.

Prosecutors also cited risk assessments indicating the brothers would pose a “moderate” threat if released and noted both men were caught with contraband cell phones in recent months.

Life Behind Bars

Over the past 35 years, Erik and Lyle Menendez have become model inmates. They've launched numerous rehabilitation programs, including support groups for vulnerable prisoners and projects to improve prison living conditions.

Defense attorney Mark Geragos praised the judge’s ruling as a step toward justice. “Today is a great day after 35 years. Redemption is possible,” he said.

Whether the brothers will eventually walk free remains uncertain, but for the first time in decades, they now have a path toward potential release.