### Los Angeles DA Fast-Tracks Decision on Menendez Brothers' Resentencing Amid Public Outcry

Amid mounting public pressure, Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón has expedited his decision regarding the potential resentencing of Erik and Lyle Menendez. These brothers are serving life sentences without parole for the 1989 murders of their parents, José and Kitty Menendez. Gascón announced that he will make his decision by the end of the week, rather than waiting for the previously scheduled hearing on November 29.

In October, Gascón had revealed that his office was examining a 2023 habeas corpus petition filed by the Menendez brothers. This petition introduces new evidence and requests resentencing. Now, Gascón has stated, "I plan to have a decision by the end of this week," in response to increased public interest and numerous inquiries about the case.

The renewed attention to the Menendez brothers' situation has been significantly influenced by social media movements, particularly on TikTok, and the popular Netflix series "Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story." The series and the subsequent documentary have sparked widespread discussion and have even topped Netflix's global TV charts since their release in late September.

This petition may represent the Menendez brothers' final opportunity for reconsideration, as they have exhausted their appeals. Gascón noted that opinions within his office are divided. Some believe the brothers should remain incarcerated, while others feel that new evidence suggests they have grounds for relief.

Key pieces of this new evidence include a 1988 letter from a then-17-year-old Erik Menendez to his cousin, which corroborates claims of abuse by their father, and allegations made by Roy Rosselló, a former member of the Puerto Rican boy band Menudo, managed by José Menendez. These revelations were not presented during the brothers' trials in the mid-1990s.

Gascón emphasized the potential impact of implicit bias regarding male rape on the original trial's outcome. He also mentioned the absence of crucial evidence in the second trial, leading to the brothers' convictions, which contrasted with the first trial where the jury could not reach a decision.

The DA is now weighing whether the new evidence could have altered the trial's outcome and evaluating if the brothers, under California law, are rehabilitated and safe to reenter society. Last week, Erik and Lyle's extended family urged Gascón to reexamine the case, noting the influence of public opinion shaped by the recent Netflix dramatization.

In the coming days, Gascón's decision will be closely watched, as it holds significant implications for one of the most infamous criminal cases of the late 20th century.