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The decision in the Menendez brothers' fight for freedom is expected this week

The decision in the Menendez brothers' fight for freedom is expected this week

Posted October 23, 2024 at 9:00 am
And last updated at 10:54 a.m. October 23, 2024

LOS ANGELES (Court TV) – The Menendez brothers will find out this week if they have a chance at life outside of prison.

On Monday, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón told PEOPLE that he will announce his decision by the end of the week on whether or not he will recommend resentencing Erik and Lyle Menendez.

Erik Menendez listens to his attorney Leslie Abramson about what his brother Lyle looks like

FILE – Erik Menendez, center, listens to his attorney Leslie Abramson as his brother Lyle looks on May 17, 1991 in Beverly Hills, California. (AP Photo/Julie Markes, File)

Gascón also said he doesn't believe the brothers are a danger to society: “Honestly, if they ever pose a danger, they probably haven't been for a very long time.” I don't think they are on the “Running around the streets killing or robbing people.”

If Gascón recommends resentencing the brothers, the decision would ultimately rest with a judge.

Erik and Lyle Menendez were convicted of brutally murdering their parents on March 20, 1996, after a second trial. Months later they were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

MORE | Mendez Brothers: What you want to know

During their first trial in 1993, both brothers testified that they killed their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, because they feared for their lives after suffering years of sexual abuse at their hands. Prosecutors argued they killed their parents to get their $14 million inheritance.

MORE | Key players in the Menendez brothers murder trial

Earlier this month, Gascón announced that his office was reviewing new evidence in the case, including a letter Erik sent to his cousin Andy Cano eight months before the murders, which his lawyers said proved he was sexually abused by Jose. The office is also investigating rape allegations against Jose by former Menudo member Roy Rosselló.

Family members of the Menendez brothers held a news conference last week calling for their release.

Watch the full California v. Erik and Lyle Menendez (1993) trial.

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