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Los Angeles DA backs Clemency Bid for Menendez Brothers; Release Could Be Imminent
Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón has thrown his support behind the Menendez brothers’ plea for clemency from Governor Gavin Newsom. Despite the criticism that this action is a reelection strategy, Gascón has taken a bold stance by sending a letter of support to Sacramento.
Revisiting a Decades-Old Case
Almost thirty years have passed since Erik and Lyle Menendez were convicted of brutally murdering their parents in their Beverly Hills mansion. The brothers have served 34 years behind bars, but now Gascón advocates for a reduced sentence. This shift comes on the heels of new evidence discovered by journalist Robert Rand, which supports the brothers’ claims of childhood sexual abuse by their father. The evidence was found in their cousin’s desk, but it was the recent Netflix series, Monsters, that propelled the case back into the spotlight. The show dives into the murky details of the Menendez family, reigniting public interest and controversy alike.
Advocating for Clemency
“I strongly support clemency for Erik and Lyle Menendez,” stated Gascón, reflecting on the brothers’ positive contributions while incarcerated. Both Erik and Lyle have pursued further education and have initiated programs aimed at rehabilitating fellow inmates.
In an earlier announcement, Gascón also mentioned plans to petition a judge to potentially resentence the brothers for manslaughter. If successful, this legal adjustment could lead to their immediate release. A court date has been scheduled for December 11 to address Gascón’s proposal. However, the brothers’ attorney has launched an appeal for clemency that could see the brothers home in time for a Thanksgiving reunion, bypassing the need for resentencing entirely.
Political Calculations Amid Electoral Battles
As election day approaches, Gascón finds himself trailing 30 points behind his main challenger in recent polls. Critics suggest that his focus on the Menendez case is a last-ditch effort to garner votes from those supporting the brothers’ release, further fueled by the popularity of Monsters. The series climbed to the top of Netflix charts and stayed there for weeks, stirring public debate and reshaping perceptions around the legal handling of the case. Notably, the series cast light on the alleged incestuous relationship between the brothers, which stirred significant controversy.
Over the past three decades, society’s dialogue around sexual abuse has evolved, partly influenced by movements like #MeToo. During the brothers’ mid-90s trials, the notion of male sexual abuse was questioned, a debate that has since shifted in favor of hearing victims’ voices. This transformation in public sentiment could play a crucial role in the current legal proceedings.
Governor Newsom’s Role and Public Sentiment
Governor Newsom recently discussed the case on his podcast, emphasizing that the period leading up to Thanksgiving is traditionally when clemency cases are reviewed. He hinted at inside information that another series from Ryan Murphy might reignite interest in the Menendez brothers’ plight. Inspired by a TikTok movement, this upcoming show delves into allegations that José Menendez also molested a member of the 80s boy band Menudo, another bombshell adding weight to the brothers’ claims.
The Menendez brothers are due to appear in court on November 25 for a habeas corpus hearing, where their attorney will request sentencing for manslaughter. This legal maneuver could result in their immediate release from the San Diego-area prison where they’ve been held together in recent years.
The Uncertain Path to Freedom
Despite the growing momentum, the brothers’ release is not guaranteed. Should clemency be denied, their fate would rest in the hands of the parole board. Statistics show that only 31 percent of 2024 appeals have resulted in parole approval, making it a risky proposition. Furthermore, Governor Newsom retains the power to veto any decision made by the parole board.
As the electoral clock ticks down, Gascón’s challenger could potentially take a different stance on the Menendez case, further complicating the potential for the brothers’ release.
Join the conversation and share your thoughts on this unfolding story. Stay tuned for the latest updates and insights in the ever-shifting landscape of law and justice.
