Judge denies Menendez brothers' bid for new trial based on weak evidence

In September 2025, a judge in Los Angeles rejected a petition from Erik and Lyle Menendez, who sought a new trial for the murders of their parents in 1989. This decision was based on a habeas corpus petition filed in May 2023, where the brothers presented new evidence alleging sexual abuse by their father, Jose Menendez. The new evidence included a letter Erik wrote to his cousin detailing abuse and a declaration from a former member of a boy band claiming he was assaulted by Jose Menendez. Judge William Ryan ruled that this evidence was insufficient and would not alter the original decision from their 1996 trial. The Menendez brothers were originally sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of their parents inside their Beverly Hills home. Their defense during the trial was centered on claims of self-defense due to prolonged abuse; however, the jury rejected this defense. In May 2024, the brothers were resentenced to 50 years to life, making them eligible for parole. Just weeks prior to the judge's denial, the brothers were also denied parole by a panel citing their history of behavioral issues in prison. The efforts made by the brothers to secure a new trial have seen considerable pushback from the legal system, with Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman opposing their release and the petition for a retrial. Hochman stated that the evidence presented in the petition does not meet the legal standards required for a new trial and emphasized that the core defense of self-defense had already been thoroughly examined and rejected by the jury and appellate courts. As the brothers continue to seek avenues for freedom, they still face significant legal challenges. Their current best option may be seeking clemency from California's governor, Gavin Newsom. With previous appeals and petitions being repeatedly denied, the brothers must navigate a complicated legal journey while raising questions around justice, abuse, and accountability that remain relevant more than three decades after the tragic events that led to their imprisonment.