Why LA District Attorney Stands Against Resentencing The Menendez Brothers

Nathan Hochman, LA County’s district attorney, takes a decisive stand against the resentencing of the Menendez brothers, upholding the original conviction amid controversy.

Quick Takes

Nathan Hochman withdraws the resentencing request for Lyle and Erik Menendez.
The Menendez brothers were convicted of murdering their parents in 1989.
Hochman questions the brothers’ purported motivations, citing fabricated claims.
A pre-existing hearing on the matter will still proceed on March 20-21.

Withdrawal of Resentencing Request

California District Attorney Nathan Hochman publicly announced that his office will remove the request to reduce Lyle and Erik Menendez’s sentences. These brothers are currently serving life without parole for the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez. Hochman has criticized the brothers for their lack of full insight and responsibility for their actions. “California District Attorney Nathan Hochman said Monday that his office will withdraw its request to reduce the sentences of Lyle and Erik Menendez.” Hochman believes their justifications were fabricated.

The Menendez family has persisted in maintaining that new evidence affirms prior allegations of parental abuse. In contrast, Hochman argued that these claims are part of an ongoing deception. Hochman outlined that the brothers haven’t demonstrated the necessary standards to warrant resentencing or prove rehabilitation.

Legal and Political Repercussions

Earlier, former District Attorney George Gascón had expressed support for lighter sentences, citing potential rehabilitation. However, Hochman asserted that this perspective wasn’t aligned with reality. The current state challenge reinforces Hochman’s perception of the brothers as an “unreasonable risk to public safety.” The 88-page motion formally seeking withdrawal displays a factual counterargument to the clemency appeals made to Governor Gavin Newsom.

Hochman likened this controversial case to that of Sirhan Sirhan, noting the lack of insight the brothers possess regarding their crimes. He stressed that Erik’s past confession to his therapist directly contradicted the innocence claims, accusing the brothers of fabricating their self-defense justification after the fact.

Public Perception and Media Spotlight

This case has long piqued public interest, highlighted by recent portrayals in true crime documentaries. A hearing slated for March 20-21 spots the chance for the court to weigh all elements, yet Hochman remains adamant about not granting a new trial. Lyle Menendez has refuted some of Hochman’s assertions on Facebook, emphasizing that their sincere apologies signify personal reform.

The Justice for Erik and Lyle Coalition echoed these sentiments, reiterating the brothers’ change and apologies. Hochman, however, remains staunch in his belief that unless there is an outright acknowledgment from Erik and Lyle about their dishonesty, an early release remains an unlikely prospect.

Hochman’s recent decision followed extensive consultations, including insights from the Menendez family, defense attorneys, and trial data. Pointing out premeditation, with transactions preceding the act, furthered the unfounded nature of their justification. Nathan Hochman remains resolute—what transpired was not self-defense but calculated homicide, challenging any modifications to their sentencing.