D.A. Shares Letter Written by Erik Menendez Alleging Dad’s Sex Abuse as He Mulls Resentencing for Brothers
Source: https://people.com/
In the high-profile murder case against Lyle and Erik Menendez, the prosecution claimed the brothers fabricated stories of sexual abuse by their father to evade conviction for killing him and their mother in 1989. However, a letter from Erik to his cousin, written in 1988, detailed his torment from alleged sexual abuse by their father, music executive Jose Menendez. In the letter, Erik expressed his fear and distress, stating, “I never know when it’s going to happen.” This letter was not presented as evidence in either of the trials; the first trial in 1993 ended in a hung jury, while the second in 1996 resulted in their convictions and life sentences.
On October 13, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón shared a screenshot of a letter he referred to as “new evidence” in the Menendez brothers’ case, though he later deleted the post. Gascón is currently reviewing this new evidence to determine if he should recommend resentencing for Lyle and Erik Menendez. On October 16, nearly two dozen family members of the brothers held a press conference advocating for this resentencing. Their attorney, Mark Geragos, expressed hope that Lyle and Erik could be released in time to celebrate their aunt Joan VanderMolen’s 93rd birthday this Thanksgiving.
The district attorney’s announcement to reconsider resentencing for Lyle and Erik Menendez followed the filing of a habeas corpus petition by the brothers’ lawyers last year, which included Erik’s letter detailing alleged abuse. Their attorneys have always acknowledged that the brothers killed their parents but have sought a lesser manslaughter charge due to the abuse claims. Manslaughter wasn’t an option during their second trial. They argue that if the letter had been presented in court, it could have influenced jurors’ decisions.
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