Menendez Brothers' Resentencing Fate Hangs in the Balance

A judge is set to make a decision on Friday regarding the potential resentencing of Erik and Lyle Menendez, who were convicted of murdering their parents. This follows the new Los Angeles district attorney's opposition to their release, despite the brothers having spent three decades in prison.

The Menendez brothers were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole after being found guilty of murdering their parents in 1989. The defense argued self-defense due to years of sexual abuse by their father, while prosecutors contended the brothers killed their parents for a large inheritance.

The previous Los Angeles County District Attorney had sought resentencing for the brothers. He had requested a sentence change to 50 years to life, which would have made them immediately eligible for release under California law. However, the current district attorney withdrew that request, citing the brothers' failure to admit to lies told during the case and their lack of full responsibility for the crime.

On Friday, the court will decide whether to allow the withdrawal of the resentencing motion. If granted, the judge will also determine whether to proceed with the brothers' resentencing hearings independently. The district attorney's opposition presents a significant obstacle for the brothers, whose resentencing seemed likely with the previous district attorney's support.

The family's relationship with the current district attorney has also become strained. A cousin of the brothers filed a complaint, alleging bias and violation of victims' rights. The brothers' attorneys questioned the district attorney's motives for withdrawing the resentencing request, suggesting political influence. The district attorney's office denied any political influence and maintained the brothers had not achieved full rehabilitation.

Without resentencing, the brothers still have other avenues to pursue freedom. They have submitted a clemency plea to the California governor, and the state parole board is investigating their potential risk to the public. Additionally, they filed a petition for habeas corpus, seeking a new trial based on new evidence, which the district attorney's office also opposes.