Menendez Brothers Face New Legal Hurdles in Bid for Freedom

California Governor orders risk assessment as District Attorney opposes new trial for brothers convicted of killing their parents.

Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered a comprehensive risk assessment to evaluate whether Erik and Lyle Menendez pose a public safety risk if released from prison.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman opposes the brothers' request for a new trial, questioning the credibility of newly presented evidence of alleged sexual abuse by their father.
The brothers are pursuing three legal avenues for release: a new trial, resentencing for parole eligibility, and clemency from the governor.
Former District Attorney George Gascón supported the brothers' release, citing their rehabilitation efforts and a broader understanding of male sexual abuse, but his successor Hochman has taken a stricter stance.
The next major court hearing on the brothers' resentencing is scheduled for March 20-21, with the outcomes potentially impacting their eligibility for parole or clemency.