LOS ANGELES — In a stunning courtroom development, a California judge has reduced the sentences of Lyle and Erik Menendez, making the infamous brothers eligible for parole nearly 35 years after they were convicted of murdering their parents.

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic announced Tuesday that the brothers’ original life-without-parole sentences were being reduced to 50 years to life, giving them the opportunity to seek parole for the first time.

“I’m not suggesting they should be released. That’s not my decision to make,” Jesic said. The ultimate call will fall to the California parole board and Governor Gavin Newsom.

Legal Experts Predict Likely Release

Former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani told Fox News Digital he expects the Menendez brothers to be granted parole “within months,” citing overwhelming support for their resentencing.

“The question the court had to answer was whether they still pose an unreasonable risk of violence. The answer was clearly no,” Rahmani explained. He added that prison guards and fellow inmates testified to their good behavior over the years and described them as model prisoners.

Rahmani also pointed out that every living relative of Jose and Kitty Menendez supported the brothers’ release, something he called “virtually unheard of in cases involving victims’ families.”

Judge Jesic echoed that sentiment in court, noting he was struck by the number of letters from corrections staff praising the brothers’ conduct behind bars, calling their transformation “remarkable.”

Although Jesic said life without parole was justified at the time, new California laws now allow for reevaluation of long-standing sentences, especially for inmates who were young when they committed their crimes.

“They’ve served 35 years,” Jesic said. “They’ve earned the chance.”

A Case Resurrected by Changing Laws — and a Netflix Docuseries

The resentencing follows a legal petition filed in May 2023, where the Menendez brothers cited new evidence of sexual abuse and trauma. Then–District Attorney George Gascón filed a motion later that year supporting a new sentence of 25 years to life for each count of murder, effectively setting a 50-years-to-life term for each brother.

Gascón’s reasoning included a better understanding of sexual violence and trauma, as well as the brothers’ consistent efforts at rehabilitation.

With Gascón having already initiated the motion, current LA DA Nathan Hochman was unable to reverse course. “There was too much support for the brothers,” Rahmani said. “Netflix and DA Gascón should probably expect thank-you cards from the Menendez brothers this Christmas.”

Family Testimony Paints Picture of Redemption

During the hearing, three members of the extended Menendez family testified in support of the brothers’ parole, insisting they no longer pose a danger to society.

“There is no chance they would ever commit another crime,” said Anamaria Baralt. “I’d bet my life on it.”

Tamara Goodall added, “They have too many plans to give back to the world.”

And Diane Hernandez described them as “extremely remarkable people now.”

Defense attorney Mark Geragos called the family’s unified support “a unicorn” — a rare and powerful statement in a case like this.

Candid, Emotional Statements From the Menendez Brothers

Appearing via video from a San Diego prison, Lyle and Erik Menendez addressed the court directly, each offering full confessions and emotional reflections on their crimes.

Lyle, now 57, said:
“I take full responsibility. I killed my parents. I chose to do that. I offer no excuses. I don’t blame my parents. I was angry, immature, and scared. I made a mockery of the justice system. I’m deeply ashamed.”

Erik, 54, followed:
“I fired five rounds and reloaded. I lied to police and to my family. I take full responsibility. I’m truly sorry. My actions were criminal and cowardly. My parents should still be alive. There will never be full healing.”

The brothers smiled and waved to family members in court after the ruling, appearing visibly relieved.

DA Hochman: Justice Must Be Grounded in Facts

Following the ruling, DA Hochman released a statement emphasizing that his office fought to ensure the court had all the relevant facts.

“Justice should never be swayed by spectacle,” he said. “This was a significant decision with serious implications for the families involved and for the principles of justice. Our role was to present a full and accurate record.”

What Happens Next?

While Erik and Lyle remain in prison for now, they are scheduled for a parole board hearing on June 13, part of a comprehensive risk assessment ordered by Governor Newsom.

This hearing will help determine whether the brothers qualify for parole, but a separate clemency process is also underway. Newsom could commute their sentences at any time, regardless of the parole board’s recommendation.

Both paths — parole and clemency — remain open.