Brothers Lyle and Erik Menendez, convicted of murdering their parents in 1996, could have their cases re-evaluated. A new hearing is scheduled for November 29, more than 28 years after their life sentence for a crime dating back to August 20, 1989.
Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón announced that new evidence could influence the brothers’ defense. A letter, allegedly written by one of the brothers to a family member, reportedly mentions the harassment he suffered. This discovery could work in favor of both men.
Erik and Lyle Menendez had pleaded guilty to the murder of their parents, justifying their action by years of harassment, including sexual abuse by their father. In addition to the letter, other evidence provided by their lawyers mentions that a member of the musical group Menudo was also allegedly abused by the brothers’ father.
The prosecutor specified that the new hearing could give rise either to a new trial or to a review of the sentences of the convicts. However, he stressed that no decision had yet been taken and that “no information has yet been confirmed.” Gascón insisted on the “moral and ethical responsibility to consider what has been presented.” The brothers, after years in prison, may have paid their debt, he said.
Finally, it was recalled that the Menendez brothers are at the center of the “Monsters” series broadcast on Netflix, helping to renew interest around their affair.
