Erik and Lyle Menendez have spent almost 35 years in prison for the murders of their parents, in one of the most sensational cases in the history of American justice. This case continues to attract public attention even today. Here is a complete overview of the main events that have accompanied this dramatic story.
1989
On August 20, 1989, Jose Menendez, a music industry executive, and his wife, Kitty Menendez, were shot to death in their home. Their sons, Lyle, 21, and Erik, 18, called the police claiming a group of robbers had committed the crime.
1990
In March 1990, Erik and Lyle were arrested for first degree murder.
1993
The first trial for the Menendez brothers began in 1993, with each having their own jury.
The prosecution alleged that Lyle and Erik killed their parents for financial gain, citing their lavish spending following the incident. Meanwhile, the defense argued that the brothers acted in self-defense, having suffered severe sexual abuse from their father.
1994
The jury failed to agree on a verdict and the trial ended in a mistrial.
1996
In a second trial, where much of the abuse evidence was suppressed, Lyle and Erik were found guilty of first degree murder. They were sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole and sent to different prisons.
1999
Erik married Tammi Menendez in prison, who is now a dedicated advocate for his release.
2003
Lyle married Rebecca Sneed in 2003, but in November 2024, Sneed announced that they had long since separated, although they remain close friends.
2018
After more than two decades, Lyle and Erik were reunited in the same prison in San Diego. According to a journalist involved in documenting the case, their first meeting was accompanied by tears and long hugs.
2023
In 2023, the brothers filed a motion to review new evidence, including a letter written by Erik months before the crimes and claims by a former Menudo gang member accusing Jose Menendez of sexual abuse.
September 2024
The series "Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story" was released on Netflix, bringing new attention to the case.
October 2024
A Netflix documentary further increased support for the release of the brothers, especially from younger generations on social media. Family members of Menendez joined a press conference to demand a retrial and a reduced sentence.
November 2024
Prosecutor George Gascón proposed that the brothers' sentences be reduced, giving them the possibility of parole. However, with his departure from office on November 5, the future of the case rests in the hands of his successor, Nathan Hochman. He has promised a detailed review of the case before making a final decision.
What is expected next?
The next retrial hearings will take place on January 30 and 31, 2025. If a reduced sentence is recommended, the judge and the parole board have the final say.
The Menendez brothers have spent decades helping other inmates and trying to improve themselves. If their sentence is reversed, it could usher in a new chapter for one of the most controversial cases in American justice.
Suggested Articles:
- Are the Menendez brothers ready to be released? The decision is expected on Christmas Eve
- The case of the Menendez brothers: The prosecutor requests the release of Erik and Lyle
- Reviews for the series "The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story
- Kim Kardashian visits the Menendez brothers in prison, but why?
- Based on the Netflix documentary: The Shocking Story of the Menendez Brothers
