LOS ANGELES – In an unexpected turn of events, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic decided to significantly reduce the original life-without-parole sentences of the Menendez brothers to terms of 50 years-to-life, thus making Erik and Lyle eligible for parole.
On Tuesday, Judge Michael Jesic announced that both brothers’ sentences were decreased to 50 years to life, paving the way for parole eligibility in relation to the 1989 shotgun killings of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez.
“I’m not suggesting they should be released [on parole]. That’s not for me to decide,” he said.
Their fate now lies in the hands of the parole board and Calif. Gov. Newsom.
Geragos expressed, “Never did I imagine two years later we’d be here after 35 years, alongside this wonderful family that feels like my own. And now, we glimpse the light at the end of the tunnel, so to speak.”
Following the judge’s decision, LA District Attorney Hochman shared his response to the ruling and said “Justice should never be swayed by spectacle.”
“The decision to resentence Erik and Lyle Menendez was a monumental one that has significant implications for the families involved, the community, and the principles of justice,” Hochman said in a news release. “Our office’s motions to withdraw the resentencing motion filed by the previous administration ensured that the Court was presented with all the facts before making such a consequential decision.
“The case of the Menendez brothers has long been a window for the public to better understand the judicial system. This case, like all cases — especially those that captivate the public — must be viewed with a critical eye. Our opposition and analysis ensured that the Court received a complete and accurate record of the facts. Justice should never be swayed by spectacle.”
The brothers remain in prison, but are now eligible for parole.
Both Lyle and Erik are already scheduled to appear before the board on June 13th as part of a comprehensive risk assessment report (CRA) ordered by California Governor Gavin Newsom, who is considering the brothers’ clemency request – a separate potential path to freedom. Fox News is told the two types of parole hearings cannot be combined.
The parole board is expected to submit its clemency recommendation to Newsom on the June date.
Newsom can also commute their sentence at any time.
Fox News’ Lee Ross contributed to this report.
