Lyle Menendez was denied parole on Friday for his role in the 1989 killings of his parents, just a day after the California parole board rejected a similar bid from his brother Erik.
The decision leaves California Governor Gavin Newsom with the final say on whether the 57-year-old will be released. The brothers have spent nearly 30 years in prison for the murders of José and Kitty Menendez, claiming they acted after years of molestation by their father. They were sentenced to life without parole in 1996, though a judge later resentenced them to 50 years to life.
Lyle and Erik Menendez have maintained that they were victims of abuse, a claim that has gained renewed attention through television dramas and documentaries. Their family members have publicly supported them, and last year former Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón recommended they be resentenced, saying they had 'paid their debt to society'.
However, current District Attorney Nathan Hochman opposed their release, arguing they had not fully accepted responsibility. The parole board denied Erik's bid on Thursday, citing his misbehaviour in prison, including the use of a cellphone, as evidence he still posed a risk to public safety.
Friday's hearing for Lyle was held separately and lasted 11 hours. Both brothers appeared by video link from a San Diego prison. The board’s decision for Lyle has not been detailed, but the panel reportedly questioned him about his behaviour and attitude towards the murders.
