Lyle Menendez, now 57 years old, was denied parole on Friday by a California board. His younger brother, Erik, faced the same fate a day earlier, as both men have been incarcerated in a San Diego prison for nearly 35 years.
During Erik Menendez’s hearing on Thursday, parole commissioners pointed out that his behavior in prison had not been exemplary, citing repeated violations involving cellphones. Despite strong support from his family, the commissioners determined that Erik remained resistant to following rules.
Commissioner Robert Barton addressed Erik, challenging the notion that he was a model inmate and describing his conduct as “selfish” and “disturbing”.
The panel decided that Erik must remain imprisoned for at least three more years. This decision was visibly distressing for Erik, despite his attentive demeanor as Barton noted, “You can be loved and forgiven by your supporters, yet still not be suitable for release.”
These hearings marked the closest the brothers have come to possible release since their life sentences were lowered in May, allowing for parole consideration.
Back in 1996, the Menendez brothers were found guilty of murdering their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in their Beverly Hills mansion on August 20, 1989.
Prosecutors argued they killed to gain access to a multimillion-dollar inheritance, while defense attorneys contended they acted out of self-defense after years of sexual abuse by their father. The jury sided with prosecutors.
After the killings, the brothers embarked on a spending spree, purchasing luxury cars, watches, trips abroad and, in Lyle’s case, a New Jersey restaurant. They were arrested in 1990, after Erik confessed to his therapist.
At Thursday’s hearing, Barton underscored the brutal nature of the crime, particularly the “execution-style” killing of Kitty Menendez. “The killing of your mother especially showed a lack of empathy and reason,” he said. “I don’t know that I’ve ever had rage to that level, ever.”
Nearly 35 years later, the Menendez case remains etched in American memory as one of the most sensational parricide trials of the 20th century. Friday’s ruling means both brothers remain behind bars, their supporters’ calls for forgiveness once again unanswered.
