Lyle Menendez Faces Parole Board Hearing in California

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 22, 2025 - Lyle Menendez, 57, appeared before the California Board of Parole today. This hearing was highly awaited, following the denial of his brother Erik’s release just a day earlier. The brothers were found guilty in 1996 for the 1989 murders of their parents. This year, they received a new sentence of 50 years to life. They can apply for parole under California’s Youth Offender Parole law.

During Erik Menendez’s 10-hour hearing on Thursday, the panel decided he “poses an unreasonable risk to public safety” if released. They pointed to his history of violations in prison and the violent nature of his crime. Parole Commissioner Robert Barton stressed that Erik’s behavior in prison, not his original crimes, led to the denial. He noted that Erik could reapply in three years.

Lyle’s hearing was held by videoconference from the Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego. It had a similar procedure. Officials are set to examine Lyle’s record, which shows fewer infractions than Erik’s. They’ll also think about the brutal way Lyle reloaded his shotgun before shooting both parents at close range. Prosecutors will likely focus on Lyle’s mixed stories about parental abuse. They may bring up his request to a former girlfriend to lie about a rape claim against their father. This was meant to back up his self-defense story.

Supporters of the Menendez brothers have become more vocal lately. Documentaries and TV shows about the case have boosted their spirits. Over a dozen family members spoke for Erik on Thursday. Many will support Lyle today. They feel cautiously hopeful that he has “transformed” through education and therapy during his 36 years in prison.

California Governor Gavin Newsom can act on the parole board’s recommendation. He has 30 days to either affirm, change, or reject the decision. Newsom’s office has not commented on whether it will intervene in either brother’s case.

Lyle Menendez’s hearing will shape his future. It may also spark public debate on rehabilitation and accountability for young offenders.