Menendez Brothers' Resentencing Hearings to Proceed Despite Prosecution's Opposition

A California judge has ruled that the resentencing hearings for Erik and Lyle Menendez will proceed as scheduled. The brothers were convicted of murdering their parents over three decades ago. Following arguments, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic confirmed the hearing will take place next Thursday.

The Deputy LA District Attorney argued that the brothers should remain in prison, claiming they haven't shown accountability or changed since their conviction. He also alleged that the previous District Attorney's request for reduced sentencing was politically motivated. The current District Attorney has since withdrawn the resentencing request.

The brothers' attorney criticized the prosecution for presenting graphic crime scene photos, which he viewed as an attempt to replay the original trial. The judge acknowledged that all arguments presented would be considered during the resentencing hearing.

The Menendez brothers were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole after being convicted of murdering their parents in 1989. A 2014 California law allows inmates who committed offenses before age 26 and have served 25 years to seek youth offender parole.

The defense argued the brothers acted in self-defense due to years of sexual abuse, while prosecutors maintained the murders were motivated by a desire for inheritance. The brothers were convicted in 1996 and have been incarcerated for 30 years.

The prosecution spent considerable time arguing the brothers hadn't been rehabilitated. The defense accused the prosecution of attempting to relitigate the case and retraumatize family members. The prosecution questioned whether the brothers understood the severity of their actions.

Most of the brothers’ family members support their release. A risk assessment is being conducted by a state parole board, with results expected by June 13.