Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced on Monday that he opposes the resentencing of Lyle and Erik Menendez, who are serving life sentences without parole for the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez. Hochman cited the brothers’ “repeated lies” about their claim of self-defense as the reason for his opposition.
Hochman stated that he might reconsider his position if the brothers admit to their alleged lies, which include fabricating a self-defense claim and failing to acknowledge their responsibility for the murders. The brothers’ attorney, Mark Geragos, criticized the DA’s decision, calling it “grandstanding” and “re-traumatizing” for the family. Geragos argued that the brothers were cross-examined on these issues during their trials, and juries rejected the self-defense claim.
Despite Hochman’s opposition, a resentencing hearing is scheduled for March 20 and 21 in Los Angeles Superior Court. The brothers’ family members, who support their release, have accused Hochman of ignoring evidence of the abuse the brothers allegedly suffered at the hands of their father. They argue that Erik and Lyle Menendez have atoned for their actions and are not the same individuals they were over 30 years ago.
The Menendez brothers’ legal team is pursuing multiple avenues for release, including a clemency request to Governor Gavin Newsom and a petition for a new trial based on claims of new evidence. However, Hochman has opposed these efforts, maintaining that the evidence of abuse is insufficient and that the murders were premeditated.
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