Judge allows resentencing hearings for Menendez brothers to proceed

On April 11, 2025, a judge in the United States ruled that the resentencing hearings for Erik and Lyle Menendez can move forward, despite opposition from the current district attorney, Nathan Hochman. The Menendez brothers, who are serving life sentences for the 1989 murder of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, claimed they acted in self-defense due to long-term abuse. Following their conviction in 1996, new evidence was submitted alleging that they experienced sexual abuse from their parents. This led to a motion for resentencing initiated by former District Attorney George Gascón prior to his loss in the November election. Hochman, upon taking office, attempted to withdraw Gascón's request, arguing the brothers had not taken full responsibility for their actions. The judge's ruling, made by Judge Michael Jesic, allowed the hearings to proceed, giving hope to the defense that their claims might finally be addressed without the current DA's opposition. The hearings are scheduled for April 17 and 18, 2025, where the burdens of proof will shift to Erik and Lyle Menendez to demonstrate they have achieved a level of rehabilitation and do not pose a danger to society. Hochman reiterated his position that the brothers have been dishonest about the circumstances surrounding the murders, complicating their eligibility for resentencing, while the Menendez family's perspective contrasts Hochman’s claims. The case has gained renewed attention from the public following a Netflix docuseries that brought the brothers' story back into the spotlight.