A prominent former television judge has voiced a firm opinion that two brothers convicted of a notorious double homicide decades ago should not be released from prison.
Erik and Lyle Menendez, who were sentenced to life without parole for the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, are scheduled for a resentencing hearing next month. A recent judicial recommendation has proposed reducing their sentences, which could make them immediately eligible for parole due to their reported good conduct while incarcerated.
In a recent interview, the former jurist, known for her no-nonsense courtroom persona, stated her clear opposition to any potential release. She emphasized the gravity of the crime, noting the brothers went on a spending spree after the killings and were convicted by a jury.
“The sentence was handed down,” she remarked. “The fact that they have reportedly behaved well in prison does not erase the finality of that judgment for the victims.” Acknowledging that her stance might be unpopular, she stood by her position that the original sentence should stand.
The presiding judge in the case, however, has expressed a different view, having formally recommended the sentence reduction after lengthy consideration. He argued that a life sentence without the possibility of parole extinguishes hope and that the brothers have demonstrated remarkable rehabilitation during their 35 years in custody, warranting a chance at eventual release.
The brothers’ fate now rests with the upcoming hearings, where a parole board will determine if they will remain imprisoned or be granted freedom.
