Erik Menendez’s future has been decided after he became eligible for parole earlier this year.
Erik, alongside his brother Lyle, was found guilty of the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty.
In 1996, they were sentenced to life in prison without parole, but this changed in May when a judge allowed for the possibility of their release.
The brothers have consistently maintained that they acted in self-defense due to years of sexual abuse from their parents. New evidence that surfaced last year supported their claims, leading to a resentencing.
The piece of evidence was a letter Erik wrote to his cousin in 1988, where he detailed the alleged abuse suffered from his father.
The letter 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.”
An LA County Superior Court judge provided them with a new sentence of 50 years to life, making them immediately eligible for parole.
Despite this seemingly positive development for the Menendez brothers, Erik faced a setback as he was denied parole yesterday (August 21).
According to BBC News, parole board commissioner Robert Barton listened to testimony with a panel for more than 10 hours before concluding that Erik was not yet ready for release.
At the hearing, Barton addressed Erik: “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.”
The board raised concerns over Erik’s violations while in prison and his criminal activities prior to his parents’ murder.
During his incarceration, Erik has been involved in prison fights and found in possession of contraband, including a cell phone, art supplies, and tobacco.
Considering these issues, Barton told Erik at the hearing: “Contrary to your supporters’ beliefs, you have not been a model prisoner and frankly, we find that a little disturbing.”
He advised Erik to reflect on their discussion rather than having ‘a pity party’.
In a statement, the Menendez family expressed: “While we respect the decision, today’s outcome was of course disappointing and not what we hoped for.
“But our belief in Erik remains unwavering and we know he will take the Board’s recommendation in stride.
“His remorse, growth, and the positive impact he’s had on others speak for themselves. We will continue to stand by him and hold to the hope he is able to return home soon.”
Erik, now 54, can reapply for parole in three years.
Lyle, aged 57, is scheduled to appear before a different parole board panel today (22 August).