Resentencing hearings for Lyle and Erik Menendez are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday in Los Angeles. The Menendez brothers, who have served over 30 years for the 1989 murders of their parents, are seeking a reduced sentence that could make them eligible for parole.
The hearings come after former Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón recommended reducing their sentences from life without parole to 50 years to life, which would allow them to seek parole immediately. However, Gascón’s successor, Nathan Hochman, opposes this recommendation, arguing that the brothers have not taken full responsibility for their actions. Hochman cites a list of “unacknowledged lies” and recent rule violations in prison as reasons against their release.
The brothers’ defense attorney, Mark Geragos, plans to present evidence of their rehabilitation, including their involvement in prison programs and educational achievements. According to NBC News, Geragos may also request a reduction in charges to manslaughter, potentially leading to their immediate release.
Family members and supporters argue that the brothers have demonstrated remorse and rehabilitation, and that their sentences should be reconsidered in light of an evolving understanding of childhood sexual abuse. The brothers maintain that they acted in self-defense after years of abuse by their father, a claim Hochman disputes.
The judge overseeing the case, Michael Jesic, has denied Hochman’s attempts to withdraw the resentencing recommendation. The hearings will focus on whether the brothers have been rehabilitated and deserve a lesser sentence. A decision could be made during the hearings or issued in a written ruling later.
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