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.

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