More than 35 years after the k*llings that stunned America, the Menendez brothers are once again in the headlines. Convicted of m*rdering their parents in 1989, Erik and Lyle Menendez have spent decades behind bars. In August 2025, both brothers appeared before the California Board of Parole Hearings for the very first time. The outcome was not what they had hoped for—parole denied. The decision has reignited debate over one of the most controversial cases in U.S. history.

The Decision: Parole Denied for Lyle and Erik Menendez

On August 22, 2025, Lyle Menendez faced the parole board via video conference from the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego. Just one day earlier, his brother Erik had also been denied parole. Both men will remain incarcerated, with the possibility of reapplying in three years.

The board’s findings acknowledged signs of remorse but raised serious concerns about ongoing behavioral issues. Commissioners pointed out Lyle’s history of breaking prison rules, particularly the repeated use of contraband cell phones, which they saw as evidence of deception and minimization of wrongdoing.

Video: New audio released of moment Erik Menendez was denied parole

Inside the Hearing: Emotions and Admissions

Lyle Menendez grew visibly emotional as he reflected on August 20, 1989—the night he and Erik turned their guns on their parents. Fighting tears, he said, “My Mom and Dad did not have to d*e that day… I will never be able to make up for the harm and grief I caused everyone in my family. I am so sorry to everyone, and I will be forever sorry.”

Parole Commissioner Julie Garland acknowledged his remorse but insisted the panel still saw “signs of risk to the public.” She noted that while Lyle has been a model inmate in many ways, underlying traits such as rule-breaking and minimization still remain.

The Case Against Release

Los Angeles Deputy District Attorney Ethan Milius argued that Lyle has shown “no growth.” According to Milius, when Lyle violates prison rules, he lies about it instead of taking responsibility. Erik faced similar criticism. His record includes contraband possession, substance abuse, and alleged involvement in a prison gang’s financial scheme.

Commissioner Robert Barton, who oversaw Erik’s hearing, made a clear distinction between forgiveness and parole eligibility: “Two things can be true. They can love and forgive you, and you can still be found unsuitable for parole.”

Defense Arguments: A Life of Abuse and Imprisonment

Lyle’s attorney, Heidi Rummel, framed his life as one defined by captivity. She described his first 21 years as “life in the prison of his home” due to alleged abuse, followed by decades in actual prison. She urged the board to recognize that society now has a deeper understanding of childhood trauma and its long-lasting effects.

Despite these arguments, the parole board was not convinced that Lyle or Erik had made enough progress to warrant release.

The Role of Governor Gavin Newsom

While the parole board’s recommendation carries significant weight, Governor Gavin Newsom retains the authority to review and potentially veto the decision. Under California law, he has 30 days to act—he can affirm, reverse, or take no action. If he does nothing, the board’s decision stands.

This political dimension underscores just how high-profile the Menendez case remains, decades after the original convictions.

Family Response: Disappointed but Hopeful

Video: Erik Menendez denied parole for m*rders of parents

In a statement following the hearings, the Menendez family expressed disappointment but emphasized hope: “This is not the end of the road… We are incredibly proud of how Erik and Lyle showed up—with honesty, accountability, and integrity.”

The family reaffirmed their support, pointing to the ongoing habeas petition that could still impact the brothers’ legal future.

A Resentencing Opened the Door

Earlier in May 2025, a Los Angeles judge reduced the brothers’ original sentences of life without parole to 50 years to life, making them eligible for parole consideration. That resentencing triggered the hearings, giving the Menendez brothers their first real chance at freedom since their conviction in 1996.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

The denial of parole for Erik and Lyle Menendez is another dramatic moment in a case that refuses to fade from public memory. Both men will remain behind bars, with the opportunity to try again in three years. The parole board recognized their remorse but ultimately viewed them as still posing a risk to society.

The Menendez brothers’ saga continues to spark national debate: Were they victims acting out of desperation, or calculating k*llers seeking financial gain? The latest decision ensures the controversy remains alive, and the world will be watching closely when the brothers step before the parole board again