Juror Deems Menendez Brothers Resentencing ‘Appropriate’

A juror from the original trial of Erik and Lyle Menéndez has now expressed her views on the recent move by the Los Angeles District Attorney to seek a resentencing for the infamous brothers. George Gascón made headlines on October 24 when he recommended a sentence reduction for the Menéndez brothers, following a resurgence of interest in their controversial case.

Hazel Thornton, who served as Juror #9 in the high-profile murder trial, shared her thoughts during an interview on Australia’s “Kyle & Jackie O Show.” She praised the decision as a significant and overdue step forward, stating, “I think it’s a wonderful step in the right direction and a long time coming.” Despite her support for resentencing, she made it clear that she does not favor a new trial, characterizing that possibility as a “horrible” idea.

Thornton acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the case’s next steps, emphasizing that the final decision rests with the judge. She reflected on Gascón’s recommendation, saying, “But I think that the DA recommending resentencing is wonderful.”

The Menéndez brothers—Erik, now 53, and Lyle, now 56—were convicted of the 1989 murder of their parents, José and Kitty, in Beverly Hills. They were sentenced to life without parole in 1996. Gascón’s recent announcement was supported by new evidence that suggested José Menéndez had allegedly molested his sons.

During her conversation on the radio, Thornton revealed she has maintained contact with the brothers, even speaking with them on occasion. When asked if she would be comfortable having them as neighbors, she responded affirmatively, asserting, “Society is not in danger if they get out.” She characterized them as polite, intelligent, and possessing a good sense of humor, noting that their exemplary behavior in prison has contributed to the push for resentencing.

Thornton added that despite their incarceration, the brothers have taken on roles in rehabilitating fellow inmates and have contributed to prison reform initiatives, demonstrating growth and maturity over the years. She did mention her dissatisfaction with the Netflix series focusing on their case, calling it inaccurate and preferring to boycott it entirely, stating she has seen clips that do not align with her perception of the Menéndez brothers.

Erik and Lyle Menéndez’s case has been a fixture in public discourse for over three decades, resulting in two trials and a life sentence. With the renewed hearing proposed by the DA, there may be a potential opportunity for the brothers to revisit their long-standing conviction and seek a different outcome.