Recently, a significant decision to reduce the life sentences of the Menendez brothers has brought them one step closer to potential release from prison. The responsibility of the next crucial step now lies with California Governor Gavin Newsom.
In a surprising move, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic has cut the original life sentences of Erik and Lyle Menendez to 50 years in prison, including the possibility of parole.
Jesic’s decision to resentence the Menendez brothers opens the door for a parole hearing to determine whether they should be released.
“The central question that needs to be addressed is whether Erik and Lyle Menendez currently present an `unreasonable risk to public safety,'” Governor Newsom remarked on his podcast, “This is Gavin Newsom.”
Newsom’s June 13 parole board hearings are planned to go on as scheduled, and the board will have the opportunity to free the brothers.
No matter what happens with their clemency request, Newsom would still have the final say over whether they should go free.
Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Neama Rahmani told Fox News Digital Tuesday that Erik and Lyle Menendez “will likely be freed in a matter of months,” adding he does not expect “the parole board or Gov. Newsom” to block their release.
Even if the parole board approves their release, the governor has veto power and could issue a pardon on his own.
Fox News Digital’s Michael Ruiz contributed to this report.
Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. She covers topics including missing persons, homicides, national crime cases, illegal immigration, and more. Story tips and ideas can be sent to [email protected]
