Los Angeles Dist. Atty. Hochman Opposes Resentencing of Menendez Brothers
On Monday, Nathan Hochman, the District Attorney of Los Angeles County, publicly announced his opposition to the resentencing of brothers Lyle and Erik Menendez, who have spent over 30 years in prison for the murders of their parents in 1989.
Background of the Case
The Menendez brothers, convicted for the brutal killings of their parents José and Kitty Menendez, have garnered significant media attention since their trial. Their conviction resulted from a tragic event that transpired in their Beverly Hills home, where the brothers shot their parents while they were watching a movie. Erik, then 18, later confessed to the murders during therapy sessions, leading to their arrest.
The prosecution initially alleged that the brothers were motivated by the desire to inherit a multimillion-dollar fortune, while their defense argued that they were acting in self-defense due to years of alleged abuse by their father. The complexities of the case have kept it in the public eye, spawning documentaries and a recent Netflix series.
Resentencing Recommendation and Hochman’s Opposition
Former District Attorney George Gascón had recommended to a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge that the Menendez brothers’ life sentences be reduced to 50 years to life. This adjustment could allow them to qualify for parole as youthful offenders due to their age at the time of the crime.
In a recent legal motion, Hochman sought to rescind Gascón’s recommendation, presenting an analysis that questions the validity of the Menendez brothers’ claims of self-defense. He supported his position by citing premeditation and efforts made by the brothers to fabricate an alibi following the incident.
Evidence Against the Brothers
Hochman emphasized that the brothers established a false narrative to law enforcement, suggesting that their parents were victims of mob-related hits. He stated, “The Menendez brothers have continued to lie for over 30 years about their self-defense” and pointed out their failure to accept responsibility for the numerous lies associated with their defense.
Current Legal Developments
The Menendez brothers are currently exploring avenues for clemency and other forms of legal relief. In June 2023, a habeas corpus petition was filed, introducing new evidence—including a letter from Erik detailing abuse and allegations from another victim—aimed at proving their claims of long-term mistreatment.
Hochman expressed his firm stance against any potential retrial, stating that the focus should remain on the murders rather than the sexual abuse allegations presented during the previous trials. He indicated he would reconsider the resentencing situation in the near future.
Family Involvement and Legal Reactions
Conflicts have arisen between Hochman and members of the Menendez family who advocate for the brothers’ release. The family has expressed feelings of being marginalized during discussions with the DA’s office, prompting complaints about Hochman’s approach during meetings and the involvement of key figures in the case.
Notably, Tamara Goodell, a cousin of the Menendez brothers, filed a complaint against Hochman, alleging bias and a lack of compassion toward the family’s trauma. In her correspondence, she criticized Hochman for not addressing their concerns adequately, which exacerbated their distress.
As of last month, California Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered the state parole board to assess potential risks associated with releasing the Menendez brothers, initiating another critical step in their pursuit of clemency.
Conclusion
The Menendez brothers’ case remains a contentious topic, with various legal and emotional dynamics at play. As new developments unfold, the narrative continues to evolve, reflecting broader societal discussions about justice, redemption, and accountability.
