Warning: This article contains discussion of sexual assault which some readers may find distressing.
The wife of convicted murderer Erik Menendez has put forward a controversial theory following news about his parole status.
In 1996, Erik and his brother, Lyle Menendez, received sentences of two consecutive life terms without parole after being convicted of killing their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in August 1989.
The defense at the time argued that the brothers acted in self-defense due to years of sexual abuse by their father. Last year, a letter penned by Erik came to light supporting these claims, which led to their resentencing.
The letter, addressed to Erik’s cousin, stated: “I’ve been trying to avoid dad. It’s still happening Andy but it’s worse for me now. I never know when it’s going to happen and its driving me crazy. Every night I stay up thinking he might come in.”
With the emergence of this new evidence, an LA County Superior Court judge resentenced Erik and Lyle to 50 years to life, making them eligible for parole immediately.
Erik appeared before the parole board on Thursday (August 21), but parole board commissioner Robert Barton decided against granting his release.
Barton explained: “I believe in redemption, or I wouldn’t be doing this job, but based on the legal standards, we find that you continue to pose an unreasonable risk to public safety.”
In response to this development, Erik’s wife, Tammi, criticized Barton’s decision and voiced her thoughts on X, formerly Twitter, regarding why she believes Erik was denied parole.
She wrote: “Parole Commissioner Robert Barton had his mind made up to deny Erik parole from the start! This was a complete setup, and Erik never stood a chance!”
Despite advocacy from Erik’s relatives, Barton stood by his decision.
He commented: “Two things can be true. They can love and forgive you, and you can still be found unsuitable for parole.”
Barton justified his ruling by referencing reports of Erik’s conduct in prison, which allegedly includes collaborating with a prison gang, drug involvement, use of mobile phones, and participation in a tax scam, according to Sky News.
Erik’s next opportunity for parole will come in three years.
His brother Lyle is scheduled for a video conference parole hearing today (August 22).
Statements have been requested from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation regarding Tammi’s allegations.
If you’ve been affected by any of the issues mentioned, you can reach out to The National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673), available 24/7. Online chat services are also available at online.rainn.org.