Photo Credit: Getty Images
Erik Menendez has been denied parole more than three decades after he and his brother, Lyle, fatally shot their parents in the family's Beverly Hills mansion, a case that became one of the most infamous in American true-crime history.
On Aug. 21, Erik, now 54, appeared by video from the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego for his first parole hearing since his sentence was reduced earlier this year. The California parole board ruled against his release, citing past disciplinary issues, inappropriate behavior with visitors, and repeated violations, including the possession of contraband cellphones.
"The killing of your mother especially showed a lack of empathy and reason," Commissioner Robert Barton said during the nearly 10-hour hearing. "Contrary to your supporters' beliefs, you have not been a model prisoner, and frankly, we find that a little disturbing."
Erik and Lyle Menendez were sentenced in 1996 to life without parole for the 1989 murders of José and Kitty Menendez. At trial, their defense argued the brothers acted out of fear after years of sexual abuse by their father, claims prosecutors dismissed, saying the motive was financial. They were 18 and 21 at the time of the shootings.
After recent legal changes in California regarding youth offenders, the brothers became eligible for parole in May, when their sentences were modified to 50 years to life.
Family members expressed disappointment at Thursday's outcome. Erik's relatives issued a statement saying, "While we respect the decision, today's result was of course disappointing and not what we hoped for. But our belief in Erik remains unwavering ... His remorse, growth, and the positive impact he's had on others speak for themselves."
Erik's aunt, Terry Baralt, who is battling colon cancer, testified that she had forgiven him and hoped to see him free in her lifetime.
The board's ruling means Erik cannot reapply for parole for three years. Lyle Menendez, now 57, will face the board on Friday in a separate hearing that will determine whether he, too, may have to wait years before another chance at release.
