Dec 16, 2024, 12:00 AM
Dec 16, 2024, 12:00 AM

Nathan Hochman stalls Menendez brothers' release despite earlier support

Highlights
  • Erik and Lyle Menendez were convicted for the 1989 murders of their parents.
  • The previous DA George Gascon had pushed for their potential release, citing new evidence of abuse.
  • Current DA Nathan Hochman shows skepticism towards the case, which raises doubts about the brothers' future.
Story

In California, the Menendez brothers, Erik and Lyle, were convicted in 1996 for the 1989 murders of their parents, Kitty and Jose Menendez. Recently, under then-District Attorney George Gascon, there appeared to be a pathway to their resentencing, raising hopes for their potential release from prison. Gascon advocated strongly for their clemency and made recommendations to review their cases based on claims of sexual abuse during childhood, which were not considered during their original trial. However, Steven Hochman, who took over the DA's office, has expressed reservations about the review process, indicating that each brother's case will be considered separately. His skepticism is reflected in his engagement with individuals opposing the brothers' release rather than their supporters. Family attorney Bryan Freedman noted that Hochman has predominantly consulted with relatives who believe the brothers deserve to remain incarcerated. Freedman raised concerns over changes in the DA's office, including the reassignment of key staff members who were instrumental in moving forward with the resentencing efforts and are now sidelined. This shift in approach from Hochman has caused alarm among advocates for the brothers' freedom and suggests that the hopeful trajectory for their release has become uncertain. Furthermore, California Governor Gavin Newsom's response has been cautious, as he stated he would abide by Hochman's assessment of the cases. The current court hearing on the Menendez brothers' future has been postponed until the end of January, allowing Hochman's office time to conduct its review.

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