Supporters of Erik and Lyle Menendez gathered outside the Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman’s office on Thursday (March 20) to protest his decision not to support the brothers’ resentencing petition. The rally, organized by the Justice for Erik and Lyle Coalition, included family members and advocates who are pushing for the brothers’ release.
Erik and Lyle Menendez were convicted of the 1989 murders of their parents in Beverly Hills and are serving life sentences without parole. The brothers have claimed that the killings were a result of years of alleged abuse by their father. The family and supporters argue that new evidence, including a letter from Erik and allegations by former Menudo member Roy Rosselló, support their claims of abuse.
Anamaria Baralt, a cousin of the Menendez brothers, emphasized the family’s determination to seek justice, stating, “We are not going anywhere. We will not stop fighting for Erik and Lyle, for justice, and for the truth” (Fox LA). Tamara Goodell, another cousin, criticized Hochman for not engaging with the family and ignoring the brothers’ positive actions in prison.
The rally comes after Hochman announced his opposition to the resentencing petition, citing the brothers’ failure to fully accept responsibility for their crimes. He plans to withdraw the request for resentencing, which had been supported by his predecessor, George Gascón (Patch).
Governor Gavin Newsom is also involved in the case, requesting a parole board investigation to assess the brothers’ threat to public safety. The results will inform his decision on potential clemency or commutation of their sentences (Extra TV).
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