Potential Reassessment Looms Over Menendez Brothers' Case in Light of Reelection Campaign Battle

https://icaro.icaromediagroup.com/system/images/photos/16378518/original/open-uri20241022-18-zlnmj?1729635506
ICARO Media Group
Politics
22/10/2024 22h09

### DA Gascón Hints at Possible Reassessment in Menendez Brothers Case Amid Reelection Battle

In a challenging reelection campaign, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón appears to be eyeing the high-profile Menendez brothers' case as a potential game-changer. Weeks after publicly declaring a review of new allegations regarding the sexual abuse history of Eric and Lyle Menendez by their father, Gascón hinted on CNN that significant developments could occur soon.

"There are two different perspectives within my office," Gascón told CNN’s Jake Tapper on Tuesday. Some staff members, including those involved in the original trial, argue that the brothers should remain behind bars for life, maintaining they were not abused. Conversely, another faction believes the siblings likely suffered molestation and deserve reconsideration of their sentences.

Gascón, aiming to make a decision by the week's end, acknowledged that the spotlight on this case—bolstered by popular media representations such as Ryan Murphy's Netflix series *Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story*—plays a role in his considerations. Gascón's decision might lead to a court recommendation for resentencing, potentially altering a hearing set for November 26 on a petition from the Menendez brothers.

This hearing stems from a 1988 letter by Erik Menendez to a cousin, revealing the alleged sexual abuse he endured. This context, absent from the brothers' 1996 retrial, could dramatically impact their fate. Gascón’s ultimate decision could lead to the brothers' release or a new trial, 35 years after their conviction for their parents' murders.

In a heated reelection battle, Gascón trails former U.S. Assistant Attorney General Nathan Hochman by double digits. At an October 3 press conference, Gascón highlighted the ethical necessity of reevaluating the case despite the brothers being convicted murderers. Hochman, backed by Ted Sarandos, criticized Gascón's timing, suggesting political motivations.

Gascón recently reiterated on ABC News’ *IMPACT x Nightline* that he doesn't believe the brothers deserve life imprisonment. This view was shared with the Menendez family and their legal team during a meeting last week. The family also held a press conference outside the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center in a show of support for the brothers.

Invited by Tapper to explain his decision on Friday's CNN show, Gascón's next steps could prove pivotal both for the Menendez brothers and his political ambitions.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

Related