For the first time in decades, Lyle and Erik Menendez are feeling hopeful about receiving parole. The brothers, who were convicted of murdering their parents in 1996 and sentenced to life without parole, have spent over 30 years behind bars.
In a recent jailhouse interview with TMZ, both brothers expressed cautious optimism about their chances of release. Lyle, 57, said that hope for the future is “really kind of a new thing” for them, as they’ve struggled to come to terms with their past. Erik, 54, echoed his brother’s sentiments, stating that he wants to be an advocate for people suffering in silence and has changed during his time in prison.
The brothers have been involved in rehabilitation programs and teaching classes on trauma healing and meditation while incarcerated. They also volunteer to help disabled and elderly inmates, and even help animals. However, their future remains uncertain due to a recent decision by Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, who withdrew a motion for resentencing that had been filed under his predecessor.
Hochman has publicly stated that he will not support the brothers’ release, but the final decision rests with a judge. The move has sparked controversy, with two former prosecutors who advocated for the brothers’ resentencing filing a legal case against Hochman, accusing him of harassment and defamation.
Public opinion remains divided, with some members of the Menendez family criticizing Hochman’s stance, while others believe he is acting in good faith. As the parole hearing approaches in June, the brothers will continue to fight their legal case and hope that the parole board sees things differently.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdjlyn83k7do