The Menendez brothers, Erik and Lyle, have been denied parole after appearing before separate panels in California this week, following more than three decades since they were convicted for the murders of their affluent parents in 1989. Their claims of self-defense, based on alleged abuse from their parents, have not secured them freedom.
Erik, aged 54, attended his hearing on Thursday, while Lyle, 57, appeared before a different panel on Friday. Both hearings revealed concerning details about their conduct in prison, which played a significant role in the denial of their release.
Parole commissioner Robert Barton stated that Erik’s behavior while incarcerated was of particular concern, pointing to instances of involvement in fights, drug usage, and participation in a tax-fraud scheme associated with a gang. Notably, Erik had been found with contraband items, including wine-making materials and art supplies for personal cell decoration. Barton described Erik’s actions as indicative of a profound lack of self-awareness, leading to his denial of parole.
On Lyle’s hearing the following day, parole commissioner Julie Garland recognized his expressions of remorse and noted the positive changes he claimed to have made while in prison. However, she cautioned that despite these improvements, Lyle displayed persistent anti-social tendencies, such as dishonesty and rule-violating behavior. Garland voiced concerns that incarcerated individuals who continue to break the rules are likely to do the same upon returning to society.
Both hearings prominently featured the brothers’ unauthorized usage of mobile phones, which are prohibited in prisons. Erik admitted that he originally prioritized outside connection over the risks of being caught, but later revised this viewpoint. Lyle acknowledged his mobile phone violations as recent as March of this year, explaining that such devices offered more privacy than his permitted tablet.
When asked during the hearings about their decision to murder both parents, Erik expressed that he perceived them as one entity due to the abuse they endured. He conveyed deep regret, wishing for his family to understand the pain he caused them. Lyle echoed this sentiment, sharing that he sees himself as deeply remorseful for his past actions.
Supporters of the Menendez brothers, primarily family members, spoke passionately on their behalf during the hearings. Their aunt, Teresita Menendez-Baralt, expressed forgiveness and a longing to reconnect with Erik, while Lyle's cousin, Eileen Cano, highlighted Lyle's personal achievements in the face of prison life. However, commissioner Barton emphasized that familial forgiveness does not equate to suitability for parole, reaffirming that both brothers remain ineligible for release at this time.
