Erik Menendez Denied Parole Over Prison Misconduct, Public Safety Risk Cited

LOS ANGELES – Erik Menendez, convicted nearly 30 years ago for the murder of his parents, was denied parole on Thursday by a California board that cited his continued misbehavior in prison as a significant risk to public safety. This decision marks a setback for Menendez, who along with his brother Lyle, recently became eligible for parole following a reduction in their sentences.

The two-commissioner panel rejected Menendez’s bid for freedom for three years, during which time he will not be eligible for another hearing. Commissioners, including Robert Barton, pointed to Menendez’s repeated violations of prison rules, particularly the unauthorized use of cellphones, as evidence that he still believes rules do not apply to him. Barton stated, “Contrary to your supporters’ beliefs, you have not been a model prisoner and frankly we find that a little disturbing.”

Menendez, who shared his life story and transformation in prison during the all-day hearing, expressed remorse but faced scrutiny over his past conduct, including allegations of gang involvement, drug use, and participation in a tax scam. He admitted that before a resentencing opened the door to parole, he prioritized self-protection over rule-following, stating, “In November of 2024, now the consequences mattered.”

The denial came despite strong support from family members advocating for his release. Meanwhile, his brother, Lyle Menendez, had his own parole hearing on Friday, the outcome of which is yet to be announced. The Menendez brothers were sentenced to life in prison in 1996 for the 1989 fatal shootings of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in their Beverly Hills mansion, a case that has continued to captivate public interest for decades.

阅读中文版 (Read Chinese Version)

Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.