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After more than three decades in prison, brothers Erik and Lyle Menéndez will not be eligible for parole, at least for now.
A California parole board denied their request this week after two intense hearings held at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego. According to Local 10, the next opportunity for a review will be in 18 months.
The brothers are serving life sentences for the shooting murder of their parents on August 20, 1989, at the family residence in Beverly Hills.
His father, José Menéndez, was a Cuban immigrant who came to the United States following the victory of the revolution in 1959 and succeeded in building a successful business career. He gained prominence as the vice president of RCA Records, where he worked with renowned figures in the entertainment world and played a crucial role in establishing the music label.
The social ascent of José Menéndez symbolized the "American Dream," but his life ended abruptly in one of the most publicized crimes of the late 20th century.
Since their conviction in 1996, the brothers have claimed that they acted after enduring years of sexual, physical, and psychological abuse at the hands of their father, a version that has gained traction in recent years thanks to new evidence and testimonies.
During the recent hearings, the prison commissioners seriously questioned the disciplinary records of the inmates. Both were flagged for using prohibited cell phones in prison, which, according to the officials, undermines their rehabilitation progress and reveals selfish behavior.
"I gained more than I lost with the phone," admitted Erik Menéndez, who confessed that he used it to talk to his wife, watch videos on YouTube, and consume adult content.
His brother Lyle also justified his violation as an attempt to maintain privacy from the intrusions of the prison staff. However, the commissioners argued that this behavior reflects a pattern of rule-breaking that has persisted over the years.
Additionally, Erik was linked to a prison gang in 2013 and admitted to having collaborated in tax fraud within the prison. He stated that he acted out of fear and the need for protection in a violent environment where he witnessed stabbings and assaults.
Another factor that influenced the decision was the brutality with which they murdered their mother, Kitty Menéndez. The commissioners insisted that the brothers were not facing an imminent threat and that there were alternatives to homicide, such as contacting the police or seeking family assistance.
Despite the rejection, the brothers could request a hearing again in 2027 if an administrative review in 2026 turns out to be favorable.
The case has gained visibility in recent years thanks to series like 'Monsters: The Story of Lyle and Erik Menéndez' on Netflix, and documentaries that present a new narrative about the abuses they endured.
Among the most impactful evidence is a letter written by Erik in 1988, where he describes the fear he felt due to the abuse by his father. The testimony of former Menudo member, Roy Roselló, has also been crucial, as he accused José Menéndez of having sexually abused him when he was a teenager, during his time as an executive at RCA.
More than a dozen family members, including relatives of José Menéndez himself, spoke before the board to support the release of the brothers. “Although I love my brother, I have completely forgiven Erik,” declared his aunt Teresita Menéndez-Baralt, who is suffering from terminal cancer.
The grand-niece of Kitty, Natascha Leonardo, offered to host them in Colorado and provide them with a stable home.
"We are sad, but not defeated," the family stated in a statement. "Erik and Lyle are men who have changed and deserve a second chance."
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