They were once the most infamous brothers in America—then, almost forgotten. But in 2025, Lyle and Erik Menendez got a shot at parole for the first time in over three decades. The hearings were long. Emotional. Raw. And ultimately—for both—denied.

In this detailed breakdown, we walk through why that door to freedom slammed shut again. From their extensive prison disciplinary records to the parole board’s searing observation—“You’re not here because of what you did in 1989. You’re here because of what you’ve done in prison.”—we explore how institutional behavior, not just past crimes, sealed their fate.

This isn’t a retread of the old headlines. It’s a hard look at the modern justice system, trauma arguments, evolving parole standards, and the reality of serving life in California’s prison system post-youth offender law reform.

Whether you believe they deserve release or not—this is the most in-depth look at how the Menendez brothers came the closest they’ve ever been to freedom… and why it still wasn’t enough.

#MenendezBrothers #TrueCrime #ParoleDenied #2025Hearing #ErikMenendez #LyleMenendez #YouthOffenderLaw #CaliforniaPrison #HiddenKillers #TrueCrimeUpdate

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They were once the most infamous brothers in America—then, almost forgotten. But in 2025, Lyle and Erik Menendez got a shot at parole for the first time in over three decades. The hearings were long. Emotional. Raw. And ultimately—for both—denied.

In this detailed breakdown, we walk through why that door to freedom slammed shut again. From their extensive prison disciplinary records to the parole board’s searing observation—“You’re not here because of what you did in 1989. You’re here because of what you’ve done in prison.”—we explore how institutional behavior, not just past crimes, sealed their fate.

This isn’t a retread of the old headlines. It’s a hard look at the modern justice system, trauma arguments, evolving parole standards, and the reality of serving life in California’s prison system post-youth offender law reform.

Whether you believe they deserve release or not—this is the most in-depth look at how the Menendez brothers came the closest they’ve ever been to freedom… and why it still wasn’t enough.

#MenendezBrothers #TrueCrime #ParoleDenied #2025Hearing #ErikMenendez #LyleMenendez #YouthOffenderLaw #CaliforniaPrison #HiddenKillers #TrueCrimeUpdate

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Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

    

 This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

    

 Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience. 

 Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle. 

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New Twist in the Menendez Case: Inside the Fight Over Resentencing  

The judge called it “stupid.” And honestly, that might be the most accurate legal description anyone’s used in this decades-long saga. Erik and Lyle Menendez, who’ve been in prison for the past 29 years for killing their parents, just had their shot at a new sentencing delayed yet again—this time because no one could agree on whether they’re allowed to look at a report they already have.

Let’s rewind. In 1989, the Menendez brothers walked into their parents’ Beverly Hills mansion and shot Jose and Kitty Menendez to death. It was brutal. No question. But what came next split the country. The prosecution said it was a cold-blooded, calculated murder for inheritance. The defense said it was self-defense after a lifetime of sexual abuse at the hands of their father. The jury went with the prosecution, and in 1996, both brothers were sentenced to life without parole.

Now, decades later, the conversation shifted. The state of California, under Governor Gavin Newsom’s guidance, has been looking more closely at long-term sentences, rehabilitation, and second chances. That’s where the Menendez brothers come back into focus.

Former LA DA George Gascón—before getting pushed out—had asked for their sentences to be reconsidered, recommending they get 50 years with the possibility of parole. But Mark Geragos, the brothers’ longtime attorney, is swinging for the fences. He’s now asking for a reduction to manslaughter. If the judge agrees, that would mean Erik and Lyle walk out of prison immediately.

But first, everyone needs to agree on how to handle a risk assessment report ordered by the governor’s office. You’d think that would be straightforward. It is not. The prosecution claims they need more time because only part of the report has been released. The defense hasn’t seen the full thing either. The judge, Michael Jesic, hadn’t seen it either. And he was clearly done with the nonsense.

"I need clarification from the governor’s office,” Jesic said in court Thursday. “This is stupid.”

Still, prosecutors insisted that the parts they have seen are enough to put the whole thing on pause. They filed a motion to delay so everyone could review what they call a crucial piece of the puzzle: how dangerous the brothers might be if released. According to Deputy DA Habib Balian, if a report exists that evaluates their potential for violence, it has to be considered.

On the other side, Geragos went scorched earth. He slammed DA Nathan Hochman for holding a press conference where he referenced the report. Geragos now wants Hochman off the case altogether, saying he’s compromised the process. Hochman, for what it’s worth, has made it clear he does not support resentencing. So yeah—tensions are high.

The governor’s office later clarified that the risk assessment wasn’t meant to stand alone—it’s part of a broader review ahead of a June parole hearing. They also said that both the defense and prosecution already had access to what’s been shared. And, they noted, they’re happy to send it to the judge if he wants it.

In the meantime, the brothers sat quietly, watching the hearing on a video feed from their prison near San Diego. Dressed in blue, emotionless, probably wondering what fresh bureaucratic hell they were now trapped in.

This whole thing has been a stop-and-start process. The original resentencing hearing was set for January, but got postponed because of wildfires in LA and a last-minute attempt by prosecutors to pull back on their own request. This latest delay pushes things again, with the next court date now scheduled for May 9.

Outside the courtroom, interest in the case hasn’t faded. Netflix’s “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” and a follow-up docuseries reignited public fascination. Journalists flooded the courthouse. Reporters elbowed for spots inside. It’s the same media frenzy that’s followed this case for decades.

Inside, things got messy—again. Geragos and Bryan Freedman, an attorney representing Menendez relatives, blasted prosecutors for showing graphic crime scene photos in a prior hearing without warning the family. Freedman called it “harassment.” Balian apologized, but added that Erik and Lyle were the ones who caused the scene in those photos—not him.

Another point of contention? The DA’s office now controls the victims’ services branch of the court. Geragos and Freedman say they’ve heard crickets from them. No contact. No coordination. Not even a heads-up.

It’s worth noting that nearly all surviving members of the Menendez family have publicly forgiven the brothers. They want them released. They believe in their rehabilitation.

Prosecutors, however, say the brothers have never come clean. They point to lies told at trial—about the abuse, about what really happened that night—and say the Menendez brothers haven’t taken full responsibility. Hochman’s office has openly said they don’t believe the abuse happened at all.

So where does this leave everything? On pause. Again. The next hearing’s set for May 9, assuming someone can get the right version of the report to the judge and everyone decides to read the same set of pages this time.

#MenendezBrothers #ResentencingDrama #TrueCrimePodcast #JusticeSystemChaos

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The Menendez brothers are at the center of a high-stakes legal storm in 2025—35 years after their infamous conviction for murdering their parents, José and Kitty Menendez. In this video, we break down the latest developments from their April 17 resentencing hearing, which was unexpectedly delayed due to a last-minute dispute over a risk assessment report requested by Governor Gavin Newsom. As the brothers’ legal team pushes for a reduced sentence under California's new resentencing laws, the prosecution argues that Erik and Lyle still haven't accepted responsibility for the brutal crime.

But that’s just the beginning. With a clemency review underway, a June 13 parole risk hearing scheduled, and newly discovered evidence—including Erik’s 1988 letter describing alleged abuse and a bombshell affidavit from a former Menudo member—this case is suddenly wide open. Could any one of these three legal avenues set the Menendez brothers free?

This true crime deep dive explores the legal strategy, psychological intrigue, and emotional weight of a case that continues to haunt America. Featuring factual reporting, no speculation, and everything you need to understand the legal crossroads facing the Menendez brothers in 2025.

#MenendezBrothers #TrueCrime #ErikMenendez #LyleMenendez #MenendezTrial #Resentencing2025 #ClemencyReview #GovernorNewsom #ParoleBoard #TrueCrimeUpdate

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Menendez Brothers Breakthrough, Judge Allows Resentencing Hearing 

In this episode, we dive deep into the stunning developments unfolding in the case of Erik and Lyle Menendez—the brothers convicted of killing their parents in 1989. After more than 30 years behind bars, the Menendez brothers have just been granted a formal resentencing hearing, scheduled for April 17–18, 2025. This courtroom move, driven by shifts in California law and a high-profile legal tug-of-war between DAs past and present, could be their first real chance at parole eligibility. We break down what happened in court, why it matters now, and what this hearing could mean for their future.

But the legal battle doesn’t end there. Current Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman is aggressively pushing back against any effort to reduce the brothers’ life sentences. He calls the abuse narrative a “fabrication” and insists the murders were premeditated executions. Meanwhile, the defense points to explosive new evidence, including Erik Menendez’s 1988 letter detailing alleged sexual abuse and sworn testimony from a former Menudo band member accusing José Menendez of assault. These revelations are fueling not just courtroom motions—but a growing movement demanding a second look at this case.

We also explore California Governor Gavin Newsom’s clemency review, which includes a parole board-ordered risk assessment now underway. Could the Menendez brothers actually be released? What happens next in this complex, emotionally charged case? Tune in as we unpack every legal angle, every new development, and every piece of evidence reshaping one of America’s most infamous murder trials.

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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com 

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman isn’t buying the Menendez brothers’ version of events. He’s made it clear: they’re not getting out of prison on his watch. Standing before the press, Hochman didn’t mince words. The self-defense claim? A lie. The supposed rehabilitation? Not enough. His office is officially opposing resentencing for Lyle and Erik Menendez, who are serving life without parole for the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez.

Hochman’s argument is simple: the brothers have spent the last 30 years weaving a story that doesn’t hold up to scrutiny. They say they were terrified of their father, that years of sexual abuse led them to kill out of fear. But Hochman, after poring over trial transcripts, prison records, and testimony, says that’s just not true. He points to the undeniable premeditation—how they drove to San Diego days before the murders to buy shotguns with a fake ID, how they planned an alibi by buying movie tickets, and how, after unloading their weapons into their parents, they shot them again in the kneecaps to stage a gang hit. They even picked up the shotgun shells and dumped their bloody clothes and weapons. None of that screams "panic." It screams "plan."

When the police started digging, the brothers initially played innocent, pushing a theory that their parents were killed by the Mafia. That held up until Erik confessed to his therapist—an admission that eventually made its way into the hands of investigators. Only then did their story change. Suddenly, it was self-defense. And as Hochman laid out, they were willing to go to great lengths to sell it. At one point, Lyle allegedly tried to convince his girlfriend to lie under oath, saying Jose had drugged and raped her. The trial testimony evolved yet again, with claims that both brothers had suffered sexual abuse at the hands of their father, with their mother complicit. But Hochman says there’s a problem with that story too: it wasn’t mentioned in Erik’s original confession. In those tapes, Erik reportedly said their father was a controlling force, that their mother couldn’t live without him, and that both had to die. Self-defense never came up.

Then there’s the forensic evidence. The brothers claimed it was dark when they burst into the den, that their parents were standing or lunging at them. But crime scene experts determined that at all times, Jose and Kitty were seated or already wounded on the ground. Hochman says that’s just one of 20 lies the brothers have told over the years. Four have been admitted to. Sixteen remain. And unless they acknowledge those, he says they don’t deserve a second chance.

Naturally, the Menendez family members who support the brothers are outraged. In a statement, they accused Hochman of "ignoring the reality" that Erik and Lyle were "repeatedly abused, feared for their lives, and have atoned for their actions." They argue that Hochman is sending a dangerous message—that male victims of childhood sexual abuse won’t be believed.

But Hochman is standing firm, and he’s not alone. He invoked California Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2022 decision to deny parole to Sirhan Sirhan, Robert F. Kennedy’s assassin. Despite Sirhan’s decades of rehabilitation, Newsom blocked his release because he failed to fully accept responsibility. Hochman says the same logic applies here. No full admission, no second chances.

This stance is a complete reversal of former DA George Gascón’s position. Before losing re-election to Hochman in December 2024, Gascón supported resentencing, arguing that because the brothers were under 26 at the time of the murders, they should be eligible for parole immediately. Hochman wasted no time undoing that.

Still, the brothers aren’t out of options. They have a pending habeas corpus petition citing two new pieces of evidence: a letter Erik wrote to a cousin months before the murders describing his father’s alleged abuse and allegations from a former boy band member who claims Jose Menendez raped him. Hochman, unsurprisingly, has asked the court to throw it out, calling it unreliable and inadmissible.

Their last hope? Clemency. The brothers have petitioned Governor Newsom, and in February, Newsom ordered a 90-day risk assessment to determine whether they pose "an unreasonable risk to the public" if released. It’s the final door left open. Whether they walk through it or it slams shut is still up in the air.

#MenendezBrothers #TrueCrime #DAHochman #Justice

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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

    

 This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

    

 Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

 Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj

The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

    

 This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

    

 Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

 Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj

The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

    

 This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

    

 Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

 Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj

The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com