In 1989, Lyle and Erik Menendez —then aged 21 and 18—sparked a highly publicized trial after brutally murdering their parents in their Beverly Hills mansion.
The case resurfaced in recent years with renewed interest, largely thanks to Ryan Murphy‘s Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, followed by a Netflix documentary that featured previously unreleased phone call recordings between the brothers and director Alejandro Hartmann.
With the new series, documentaries, and ongoing public interest, many are still left wondering if the Menendez brothers have been released. To learn more about their case and where they stand today, keep reading.
What Did Lyle and Erik Menendez Do?
The brothers murdered their parents, José and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menéndez, in 1989 with shotguns.
After committing the crime, Lyle and Erik spent an estimated $700,000 of their inheritance, according to Time Magazine. They became suspects when Erik confessed to their psychologist, Dr. Jerome Oziel, during a therapy session. Oziel’s mistress, Judalon Smyth, later reported the confession to the police. Despite the doctor-patient confidentiality typically afforded in therapy, Oziel played a significant role in the brothers’ trials, claiming they had threatened his life.
Were the Menendez Brothers Released from Prison?
Lyle and Erik have not been released and remain incarcerated.
However, the brothers’ case has been under review, and the potential for resentencing and release is becoming more likely. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter in late September, a habeas corpus petition citing new evidence could lead to new sentences for the two. The 2023 petition includes a sworn statement from former Menudo member Roy Rosselló, who alleged that he was sexually assaulted by the brothers’ father, José, in the 1980s. Additionally, the petition highlights a letter Erik wrote to a cousin months before the killings, suggesting he was a victim of abuse. At the time, District Attorney George Gascón confirmed that a new court hearing was scheduled for November 29, 2024.
Gascón also filed a motion on Oct. 30 supporting the Menendez brothers’ request for clemency from Governor Gavin Newsom. Describing the brothers as “model prisoners,” Gascón told CNN that he believes there is a strong likelihood they would be granted parole if the case reaches the parole board. An attorney for one of the brothers expressed hope that they could be home in time for Thanksgiving.
Gascón was recently unseated by former federal prosecutor Nathan Hochman, who is set to take office on December 2. Hochman stated he will need time to review case files before taking a position on the resentencing.
“I will have to review the confidential prison files for each brother, the transcripts from both trials, and speak to the prosecutors, law enforcement, defense counsel, and the victims’ family members. Only then can I make a decision. If for some reason I need additional time, I will ask the court for that time.”
“If I ask for a delay, it won’t be a delay for delay’s sake because I think the Menendez brothers, the victim family members, the public deserve to have a decision done as soon as it can be done in a thorough manner,” Hochman added. A hearing on resentencing is scheduled for December 11.
Where Are Lyle and Erik Now?
Both Lyle and Erik are serving their sentences at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in California. They were reunited in 2018 at the prison, after initially being sent to separate prisons following their 1996 conviction.
During their time apart, Lyle spoke to PEOPLE in 2017, sharing that, despite the crime, the ordeal brought them closer. They stayed in touch by playing chess through the mail and writing letters to each other. “We’re not twins, but when you’ve gone through the kind of chaotic childhood that we had, it’s almost like you are. You have that bond and that shared experience,” he said.
How Long Are Their Sentences?
The brothers were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murders of their parents. Their trials began in 1993, and they were found guilty in 1996.
If you or anyone you know has been sexually abused, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). A trained staff member will provide confidential, judgment-free support as well as local resources to assist in healing, recovering and more.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357).
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