Overview

• Los Angeles Superior Court Judge William C. Ryan rejected the brothers’ habeas petition on Sept. 16, denying a new trial.
• The defense’s submissions centered on a 1988–89 letter Erik allegedly wrote to cousin Andy Cano and a declaration by ex-Menudo member Roy Rosselló alleging abuse by José Menéndez.
• Ryan wrote the materials were not “particularly strong,” would not create reasonable doubt, and did not support an imperfect self-defense instruction or negate premeditation findings.
• The California parole board denied both men release in August and set a three-year wait before they can reapply.
• The brothers may appeal the ruling and pursue clemency, as Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman maintains the jury already rejected their self-defense claim.