Lyle Menendez was denied parole by the California parole board, following his brother Erik’s denial the previous day, marking a significant setback in their decades-long imprisonment for the 1989 murder of their parents. This decision underscores ongoing concerns about their risk to public safety despite family support and rehabilitation efforts.
Who: Erik and Lyle Menendez, now in their 50s, were convicted in 1996 for the shotgun murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in their Beverly Hills mansion. The case has captivated public attention due to claims of childhood abuse and its high-profile nature.
What: Both brothers were denied parole after separate hearings before the California Board of Parole Hearings. The board concluded that each still poses a risk to society, citing prison infractions and behavioral issues.
When: The hearings took place on August 21 and 22, 2025, with decisions announced on August 22 and 23, 2025. This comes after 35 years of imprisonment since the crime was committed in 1989.
Where: The parole hearings were conducted virtually from the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego, where the brothers are incarcerated. The case is rooted in Los Angeles County, California.
Why: Parole was denied due to concerns over the brothers’ prison behavior, including the use of illicit cellphones, association with prison gangs, and antisocial personality traits. Commissioners emphasized that these actions indicate a lack of rehabilitation and potential risk if released.
How: The decisions were made after lengthy hearings where commissioners questioned the brothers about their childhood abuse, the murders, and their conduct in prison. Family members testified in support, but the board focused on the severity of their crimes and recent rule violations.
Impact: The denials mean the Menendez brothers will remain in prison for at least another 18 months, disappointing their family and supporters who had hoped for release. It also highlights the challenges faced by long-term inmates in obtaining parole, even with moderate risk assessments.
What’s next: The brothers are eligible to request an administrative review in one year, and if granted, they could have another parole hearing in 18 months. Their family has vowed to continue supporting them, emphasizing their remorse and rehabilitation efforts.