Summary
The Menendez brothers, Erik and Lyle, are undergoing a reevaluation of their murder convictions over newly surfaced evidence suggesting they were sexually abused by their father. This development, announced by Los Angeles District Attorney Javier Gascon, could potentially lead to resentencing or a new trial for the brothers, who were convicted over 30 years ago for the murders of their parents.
The case has garnered renewed attention following the release of Netflix’s series Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, which has reignited public interest in the brothers’ claims of abuse. During their original trials, the brothers testified that the murders were committed in self-defense due to the alleged long-term sexual abuse by their father, José Menendez. The prosecution argued that the motive for the murders was financial gain. The recent evidence includes a letter from Erik Menendez referencing abuse, as well as allegations from another victim of José Menendez. The District Attorney’s office is set to review these claims ahead of a court hearing scheduled for November 26.
Background of the Case
The Menendez brothers were convicted of first-degree murder for the 1989 killings of their parents in Beverly Hills. Their trials were highly publicized and featured emotional testimonies about the alleged abuse they suffered. The initial trial ended in a mistrial due to divided juries, and they were ultimately convicted in a second trial in 1995.
New Evidence
The Los Angeles District Attorney’s office is examining two significant pieces of evidence: a letter from Erik to a cousin that appears to reference the alleged abuse and a recent allegation from a member of the boy band Menudo against José Menendez. Additionally, attorney Mark Geragos has indicated there is another declaration from an alleged victim that may support the brothers’ claims. Geragos argues that this new evidence could provide sufficient grounds to reconsider the brothers’ convictions.
Public and Family Reactions
The Menendez family’s reaction to the renewed media attention has been critical, with accusations that the portrayals in the Netflix series misrepresent the facts of the case. The brothers’ aunt described the series as a “grotesque shockadrama” that fails to acknowledge the recent exculpatory information. In contrast, the series creator, Ryan Murphy, defended the show, stating that the brothers had not engaged with the material before voicing their criticisms.
Menendez murder case will be reviewed, Los Angeles DA says
Oct. 3 / Cbs News / Calls attention to the Los Angeles DA's commitment to reviewing new evidence, providing a clear timeline and context around the case, yet lacks depth in exploring the implications of the new findings. “ Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón said the Menéndez murder case is being reviewed by his office, naming two new factors that prosecutors...
Menendez Brothers: New Molestation Evidence Being Reviewed in Murder Case
Oct. 3 / Rolling Stone / Highlights the moral obligation emphasized by the DA, while offering a critical perspective on the Netflix series, making it compelling for readers interested in the intersection of media portrayal and justice. “ Over 30 years after being sentenced for murdering their parents, new evidence in Erik and Lyle Menendez’s case will be reevaluated, Los Angeles District...