The family of Lyle and Erik Menendez calls for the brothers' release

Relatives of brothers Lyle and Erik Menendez, imprisoned for the 1989 murder of their parents, have called for their release. They were convicted of murder and have been serving life without parole since 1996.

The case regained prominence after the premiere of the series Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, which recounts the events and premiered Sept. 19, 2024.

"But as details of Lyle’s and Erik’s abuse came to light, it became clear that their actions, while tragic, were the desperate response of two boys trying to survive the unspeakable," said Joan VanderMolen, their 92-year-old aunt.

"Lyle and Erik have already paid a heavy price, discarded by a system that failed to recognize their pain. They have grown. They have changed and become better men, despite everything that they’ve been through. It’s time to give them the opportunity to live the rest of their lives free from the shadow of their past," she added at a press conference attended by some 30 family members.

The Menendez brothers were sentenced to life in prison in 1998 for murdering their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in their Beverly Hills home. The brothers admitted to shooting their father, a show business executive, and their mother.

Last year, lawyers for the brothers filed a motion presenting new evidence they say shows abuse by Jose Menendez, including a letter written by Erik to a cousin.

The defense has requested a review of the sentence, which could mean the release of their clients.

Earlier this month, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón gave an update on the Menendez brothers' case. Gascón said they are reviewing the conviction, in which they were convicted of murdering their parents, to determine whether they should be resentenced and potentially released.

The prosecutor's office said it currently has a different view of sexual violence in cases such as the Menendez brothers.

"Today, our office acknowledges that sexual violence is a pervasive issue affecting countless individuals—of all gender identities—and we are committed to supporting all victims as they navigate the profound impacts of such trauma," they wrote.