Newsom Postpones Menendez Brothers Clemency Decision

Gavin Newsom Postpones Decision on Menendez Brothers’ Clemency

In a significant development for Erik and Lyle Menéndez, California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a delay in deciding their clemency petition. This decision comes over two decades after the brothers were convicted for the high-profile murders of their parents, Kitty and José Menéndez, in 1989. On November 18, Governor Newsom stated that he would wait for the incoming Los Angeles district attorney, Nathan Hochman, to review the case before making any clemency decisions.

Newsom’s office emphasized the importance of allowing the newly elected district attorney to fulfill their duties in relation to the Menéndez case. “The governor respects the role of the district attorney in ensuring justice is served and recognizes that voters have entrusted District Attorney-elect Hochman to carry out this responsibility,” the statement read.

Previous Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón had recommended that both Erik and Lyle, now aged 56 and 53 respectively, be resentenced to allow for the possibility of parole. This recommendation was made as part of ongoing discussions regarding the brothers’ sentences, which were handed down following their 1996 conviction.

As the Menéndez family continues to advocate for the brothers’ release, pressure mounts for a resolution. Hochman, who will officially take office on December 2, previously referred to Gascón’s interest in the case as “suspicious” but has assured that he will conduct a timely review.

A critical hearing is scheduled for November 25, where a judge will consider a habeas petition intended to overturn the Menéndez brothers’ first-degree murder convictions. Following this, a resentencing hearing is set for December 11, at which Hochman is expected to request additional time for a thorough examination of the case before making recommendations.

In a recent interview, Hochman acknowledged the weight of this case, stating that any delays would not be taken lightly. “It’s too important to the victims’ family members and to the public to delay more than necessary,” he said.

Though cautiously optimistic about their prospects for release, the Menéndez brothers are realistic about the challenges ahead. Their attorney, Mark Geragos, portrayed their mindset as one of patience while Hochman gathers extensive materials for review.

With Hochman’s extensive background in criminal justice, he has assured constituents that a well-considered decision will follow his review. “People should expect that I spent a long time thinking about it, analyzing the evidence,” he clarified, highlighting his experience as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney.

As the situation unfolds, the public and the Menéndez brothers await Hochman’s evaluation, which could potentially reshape their futures in the coming weeks.