Menendez brothers could walk free after sentence reduced to life with parole

A Los Angeles judge has slashed the brothers' punishment from life without parole to 50 years to life, making them eligible for parole under California’s youthful offender law.

The law applies to those who committed crimes under the age of 26 — Erik was 18 and Lyle 21 when they killed Jose and Kitty Menendez in 1989.

Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic told the packed courtroom:

“I’m not saying they should be released, it’s not for me to decide. I do believe they’ve done enough in the past 35 years, that they should get that chance.”

The brothers, who appeared via livestream, remained largely stoic — though Erik cracked a smile when a cousin praised his recent A+ grades in college courses behind bars.

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The ruling means the decision now lies with California’s parole board, who will determine whether the pair still pose a risk to the public.

The sensational case remains one of America’s most talked-about family tragedies, reignited recently by hit dramas and a wave of public support.

Attorneys for must prove the pair have been rehabilitated during their time in prison and deserve a lesser sentence of 50 years to life.

Such a ruling that would make them eligible for parole under California’s youthful offender law, since both were under 26 when they killed their parents.

Their high-profile defence lawyer Mark Geragos told reporters outside court that he wants the charges dropped to manslaughter, and for the brothers to be given time served.

This move would effectively grant them immediate release.

At least seven family members are expected to testify in support during the hearings, highlighting the level of backing the brothers continue to receive.

While Los Angeles County prosecutors are opposing the resentencing, arguing the pair haven’t fully accepted responsibility, Geragos fired back:

“The purpose of resentencing is to encourage rehabilitation — that is the law, not relitigate the facts of the crime as the D.A. wants to do.”

Former District Attorney George Gascón has already paved the way, citing new understandings of trauma and the brothers’ lengthy rehabilitation behind bars, including their educational achievements and support work with fellow inmates.