Erik and Lyle Menendez are close to possible freedoms as judges reduce their verdict
The judge ruled on Tuesday that Erik and Lyle Menendez will shoot on freedom after falling 35 years behind in the murder of their parents.
Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic reduced his brother's sentences from life without parole to 50 years.
“I'm not saying they should be released, it's not my decision,” Jesus said. “I do believe they have done enough in the last 35 years and should have a chance.”
They are now eligible for parole under the California Young Criminal Law because they were under 26 when they committed the crime. The National Parole Board still has to decide whether to release it from prison.
The brothers showed no obvious emotion in most testimony as they appeared through live videos.
“I killed my mom and dad. I have no excuses and no reason,” Lyle Menendez said in a statement to the court. “The impact of my violence on my family is incredible.”
Erik Menendez also talked about being responsible for his actions and apologizing to his family. He said: “You shouldn't get everything I did to you, but you inspired my ability.”
“Reden is possible”: Defense Attorney
The brothers were denied bail in 1990 after being arrested at their home in Beverly Hills in 1989 for murdering their father, Jose Menendez and mother, Kitty Menendez. They were subsequently convicted of first-degree murder in 1996 and then sentenced to life imprisonment without parole. At the time of the killing, Erik was 18 and Lyle was 21.
Although the defense attorney argued that the brothers acted out of self-defense after years of sexual abuse by their father, prosecutors said the brothers killed their parents with millions of dollars in inheritance.
The case has attracted public attention for decades. Over the past few months, supporters of the brothers have flew from all over the country to attend rallies and hearings.
“I just know that on today's day, redemption is possible,” said defense attorney Mark Geragos. “The fact is, the Menendez Brothers did a great job. Today is a wonderful day 35 years away.”
“We've evolved,” Glagos said. “It's not the 90s anymore. We have a stronger understanding of a lot of things.”
