Menendez Brothers' Resentencing Hindered by Risk Assessment Findings

New details from the Comprehensive Risk Assessment (CRA) of Erik and Lyle Menendez have raised concerns about their behavior behind bars, complicating their resentencing process.

The resentencing of Erik and Lyle Menendez, convicted of the 1989 murder of their parents, faces new challenges after a detailed report on their prison behavior was presented in court. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman highlighted troubling aspects of the brothers’ conduct in the CRA, which was ordered by Governor Gavin Newsom. The report, which surfaced during a recent court session, detailed incidents of contraband possession and rule-breaking, casting doubts on the brothers’ readiness for potential parole.

Hochman argued against the brothers being classified as ’low-risk’, pointing out that both Erik and Lyle had been cited for possessing cell phones, among other violations. Specifically, Hochman noted Lyle’s deceitful actions and a tendency to downplay his rule-breaking, suggesting a level of entitlement. Erik’s report was equally concerning, indicating behavior issues, a lack of maturity, and vulnerability to negative influences, including from his brother.

Despite Hochman’s objections, Judge Michael Jesic ruled that there was no significant new evidence in the CRA to halt the resentencing process. However, the judge acknowledged the subjective nature of the state psychologists’ conclusions and the limitations of using the CRA outside the parole system. The defense, led by Mark Geragos, argued that Hochman was misusing the CRA findings and highlighted the brothers’ accomplishments during their long incarceration.

The Menendez brothers are scheduled to return to court on May 13 and 14 for further proceedings. As they seek resentencing, the impact of the risk assessment report remains a critical factor in their case, which continues to attract attention due to its political and legal complexities.