January 1, Menendez Brothers Denied Parole After 36 Years

Wyatt’s Take

• Lyle and Erik Menendez both denied parole this week after decades in prison.
• Family made public pleas for their release, but officials cited rule violations and behavior.
• The brothers can still try for parole again in the future.

The California parole board said no to Lyle Menendez’s request for parole, 36 years after he and his brother Erik were convicted of killing their parents.

Erik Menendez faced a similar hearing the day before, and he was also denied parole. Both brothers were resentenced in May to allow for a chance at parole after decades behind bars.

Family members stepped up with support and asked for their release from prison.

Officials said Lyle’s case was considered carefully and looked at his record. Reports show Lyle had fewer rule violations compared to Erik.

The board pressed Erik about his rehabilitation for nearly ten hours before deciding against parole. Officials pointed to behavior issues in prison as the main reason for his denial.

Erik Menendez can try for parole again in three years.

Read more here

Wyatt Matters

This story reminds us that actions have consequences and that our justice system still takes hard crimes seriously. Families in the heartland value fairness and accountability above all.