Menendez brothers' case takes a turn: new D.A. holds 'productive' meeting with family

The case of Erik and Lyle Menendez, infamous for the 1989 shotgun murders of their parents, took a new step forward as Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman met with their family members for the first time. Hochman described the meeting as "productive" during a Friday press conference but refrained from sharing specific details.

The Menendez family, who remain divided over the brothers' potential release, presented their views to the new D.A. Hochman emphasized that the volume of family support for the brothers' release is less critical than the substance of their arguments. He is currently reviewing court transcripts and prison records as he prepares for the brothers' resentencing hearing, now delayed until 2025.

Family advocates push for freedom after 35 years

The Menendez brothers have served nearly 35 years of life sentences without parole for the high-profile murders of their parents, Jos? and Kitty Menendez. Over the years, a coalition of relatives has formed the Justice for Erik and Lyle Coalition, arguing that the brothers have been rehabilitated during their decades behind bars.

The coalition highlights the brothers' model behavior as inmates, citing former D.A. George Gasc?n's prior support for resentencing. Gasc?n, who lost his re-election bid to Hochman in November, had initially set a hearing to revisit the brothers' case. However, with Hochman now at the helm, the path forward remains uncertain.

Hochman also met with the lawyer representing the sole family member opposing Erik and Lyle's release, further showcasing the complexity and emotional weight of the case.

The road ahead remains unclear

Despite the family's efforts to persuade Hochman, he remains non-committal about his stance. His focus appears to be on gathering all necessary information before taking a position, signaling a cautious and measured approach to the controversial case.

The brothers' attorney, Mark Geragos, and their relatives declined to comment following the meeting, leaving many questions unanswered.

As the resentencing hearing looms, the Menendez brothers' fate hangs in the balance, with Hochman's decision likely to shape the next chapter of this decades-long legal saga.