The Menendez family has criticized Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman after Teresita “Terry” Baralt, the 85-year-old aunt of Lyle and Erik Menendez, was found unresponsive and hospitalized. This incident occurred 30 hours after a deputy prosecutor displayed graphic crime scene photos of her brother José and his wife Kitty Menendez during a court hearing. These images, shown without warning, were the first time Baralt had seen the photos, which she described as traumatizing.
The Menendez brothers, who have been in prison for over 35 years for the 1989 murders of their parents, are scheduled for a resentencing hearing this week. The family, represented by attorney Bryan Freedman, plans to pursue legal action against Hochman for allegedly violating Marsy’s Law, which protects victims’ rights. Freedman stated that the display of the photos was a “clear violation” of the law and directly responsible for Baralt’s hospitalization.
Hochman’s office apologized for not providing prior warning about the photos but defended their use in court, stating the hearings are meant to reveal the truth, no matter how painful. The DA’s office did not address the family’s demand for their removal from the case.
The Menendez brothers’ resentencing hearing is set for April 17 and 18, with over 20 relatives supporting their release, citing years of abuse by their parents as a factor in the murders. The family argues that the brothers have shown remorse and rehabilitation during their time in prison. California Governor Gavin Newsom is also involved, having ordered a risk assessment to inform a clemency request for the brothers.
Recent Comments