Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced his opposition to Eric and Lyle Menendez’s attempts to secure their release from prison, where they are serving life sentences for the shotgun murders of their parents in 1989. Hochman requested the court to dismiss previous allegations of resentment filed by his predecessor, George Gascon, threatening the brothers’ momentum in seeking freedom. He criticized their self-defense claims as false and highlighted their lack of accountability.
The Menendez brothers have pursued a three-part legal strategy in 2023, including petitions for parole and calls for a new trial based on alleged new evidence of abuse by their father. However, Hochman dismissed these claims, believing evidence supporting their allegations of abuse is insufficient. Despite arguments from family members advocating for the brothers’ release, Hochman emphasized the need for the Menendez brothers to acknowledge their actions fully if they expect a change in their circumstances.
The DA remarked that after reviewing ample evidence, he believes the murders were premeditated and not a reaction to parental threats. While there is significant family support for the brothers’ release, Hochman’s stance highlights contrasting views within the family, especially following the recent death of a relative opposed to the men’s release. Governor Gavin Newsom is also involved, awaiting Hochman’s recommendations to inform his decision on their potential release.
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