Update on Erik and Lyle: Is the Menendez Case Being Reopened? – Hollywood Life
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Monsters: The Lyle an Erik Menendez Story has raised interest in the case of Erik Menendez and Lyle Menéndez. The brothers have been incarcerated since 1996 for murdering their parents, José Menéndez and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menéndez, whom they accused of abuse. With a new generation examining their story in a different light, there is speculation about reopening their case. Hollywood Life offers a comprehensive overview of their imprisonment and any updates.
What Was the Motive Behind the Menendez Brothers’ Actions?
In August 1989, Lyle and Erik fatally shot their parents. The crime was brutal, with José being shot six times and Kitty 10 times. They came under scrutiny for living lavish lives after the murders. Eventually, Erik confessed to his therapist, Jerome Oziel, who then disclosed the information to his former mistress, Judalon Smyth, leading to their arrest in 1990.
Following a mistrial, the brothers were formally convicted of two counts of first-degree murder and conspiracy to murder in 1996. They received life sentences without the option of parole.
Current Status of Lyle and Erik Menendez
Lyle and Erik were incarcerated in separate California prisons post-conviction. They are still alive and will address their case in Netflix’s upcoming documentary, The Menendez Brothers, debuting on October 7, 2024.
Are Lyle and Erik Menendez Incarcerated Together?
Initially held in distinct facilities, Lyle was relocated to Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in 2018. They were placed in the same unit after being housed separately for years, marking the first reunion in over two decades. Prior to their reunion, they were prohibited from speaking on the phone.
Possibility of Reopening the Menendez Case
According to The Hollywood Reporter, there is a chance of a new trial as Lyle and Erik might receive a different sentence through a habeas corpus petition. Recent allegations of sexual abuse against their late father and potentially incriminating evidence of their abuse have surfaced.
Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón has disclosed a scheduled court hearing for Lyle and Erik in November 2024, as reported by Variety.
During a press conference, George mentioned the new evidence related to molestation claims against the father and expressed the obligation to review the material for a potential resentencing or retrial.
However, George stressed the need for confirming the evidence before making any decisions regarding the brothers’ case.
The court hearing could lead to a reconsideration of the brothers’ sentences.
Response to ‘Monsters’ from the Menendez Brothers
Following the release of Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, Erik criticized the series for its portrayal of him and Lyle.
Erik expressed disappointment in the depiction of Lyle in the show and accused Ryan Murphy, the show’s creator, of intentional misrepresentation of their lives.
In response to the criticisms, Ryan Murphy defended the show and pointed out the broader narrative the series aimed to convey.
Ryan emphasized the attention the show brought to the case and the exploration of various aspects of the story.
He highlighted the inclusion of different perspectives, including that of the defense attorney, Leslie Abramson, and the backstory of José and Kitty.
Ryan condemned the brothers’ attempt to portray themselves as victims and defended the show’s storytelling approach.
If you or anyone you know has been sexually abused, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) for support and resources.