Lyle Menendez, the older brother of convicted killer Erik Menendez, has been denied parole for three years after a daylong hearing before the California parole board. The decision was made due to his misbehavior behind bars, including his use of cellphones and displaying “anti-social personality traits” such as deception and minimization.
Menendez had previously spoken about the physical and sexual abuse he suffered at the hands of his father, Jose Menendez, during a hearing for his brother Erik. He expressed remorse and told the panel that he took sole responsibility for the murders.
Commissioners noted that while Menendez displayed genuine remorse, he still showed signs of his past behavior, including a history of violence and bullying in prison. The panel also praised his efforts to build positive relationships with correctional staff and participate in rehabilitation programs.
Despite being eligible for parole after having his sentence reduced, Menendez’s misbehavior and lack of improvement led the board to deny him release. Commissioner Julie Garland said that citizens are expected to follow rules regardless of incentive, and that Menendez’s case was a reminder that even those with the desire to change must demonstrate it through their actions.
Menendez will now remain incarcerated for another three years before being eligible for re-evaluation by the parole board. The decision marks the latest setback in his efforts to win freedom after serving decades in prison for killing his parents in 1989.
Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/california-board-denies-lyle-menendez-parole-after-rejecting-his-brother-eriks-appeal