CRIME
Will the Menendez Brothers Walk Free Soon?
Los Angeles, USAWed Oct 30 2024
Erik and Lyle Menendez, infamously known for the 1989 murders of their parents, might see their murder convictions changed. Their attorney, Mark Geragos, is considering asking a judge to reduce their convictions from murder to voluntary manslaughter. This move aims to speed up their release from prison. Some family members, like cousin Tamara Goodell, believe the brothers have served enough time.
LA County District Attorney George Gascón has recommended resentencing, but he doesn't support reducing their convictions to manslaughter. Gascón maintains that the murders were brutal and premeditated. However, he believes the brothers have changed over the past 35 years and could be released immediately if their convictions are downgraded.
The Menendez brothers, serving life sentences without parole, claim they acted in self-defense after years of sexual abuse by their father. If a judge agrees to resentencing, the case would need approval from the Board of Parole and Governor Gavin Newsom. This process could take another year. But a reduction to voluntary manslaughter could lead to immediate release.
Gascón thinks the outcome today might differ from the original trial. A judge still needs to be chosen to consider resentencing. Geragos will decide on recalling their convictions once the judge is known.
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questions
How does the potential reduction in their convictions align with the original verdict and the jury's conclusion?
If the Menendez brothers' convictions are reduced to voluntary manslaughter, what safeguards would be in place to ensure public safety?
If the brothers are released, who will they call first – their parole officer or their lawyer?