DA Opposes Resentencing for Menendez Brothers Amid Controversy
The Los Angeles County District Attorney, Nathan Hochman, has publicly opposed a motion for resentencing filed on behalf of convicted murderers Lyle and Erik Menendez. The DA’s statement highlights the brothers’ refusal to take full responsibility for their actions in the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez.
Arguments Against Resentencing
In his opposition, Hochman emphasized the brothers’ continuous claims of self-defense, stating, “As a full examination of the record reveals, the Menendez brothers have never come clean and admitted that they lied about their self-defense.” He also noted their involvement in suborning perjury related to fabricated allegations about their father and mother, adding weight to his argument against easing their sentences.
Current Sentencing Status
Both brothers are serving life sentences without the possibility of parole after being convicted for the murders committed when Erik was 18 and Lyle was 21. In the previous year, former DA George Gascón had suggested a modification of their sentences to potentially allow parole eligibility, citing the brothers’ behavior while incarcerated and presenting fresh evidence of alleged abuse by their father.
Changing Political Landscape
Since Hochman, who took a more conservative stance on crime, assumed office, the fate of the Menendez brothers has grown more uncertain. Hochman recognized their good behavior in prison but maintained that their “lack of full insight and lack of complete responsibility for their murders” influenced his decision to oppose the resentencing motion.
Potential for Future Resentencing
Despite his current opposition, Hochman left open the possibility for future support of a resentencing motion. He stated that should the Menendez brothers “finally come forward and unequivocally admit and completely accept responsibility,” it would prompt reconsideration of their cases.
Family Dynamics and Tensions
The ongoing legal proceedings have strained relations between Hochman and members of the Menendez family. Following a meeting where family representatives described Hochman’s demeanor as “hostile,” tensions escalated. Family members voiced concerns regarding his handling of attorneys who previously backed the resentencing efforts.
Moreover, Tamra Goodell, a cousin of the Menendez brothers, expressed that such interactions have left the family feeling distressed and humiliated. These sentiments underline the complexity surrounding public perception and familial ties in high-profile legal cases such as this one.
A statement from a lawyer representing the Menendez brothers was not readily available following the developments.
