The ongoing case of the Menendez brothers has recently garnered significant attention as it undergoes a detailed review process. According to The Hollywood Reporter, a new habeas corpus petition has been filed, citing previously unexamined evidence that could potentially lead to altered sentences for both siblings. This 2023 petition prominently features a sworn statement from Roy Rosselló, a former member of the iconic boy band Menudo, who has made serious allegations of sexual assault against the brothers’ father, José Menendez, dating back to the 1980s. Furthermore, the petition draws attention to a troubling letter written by Erik to a cousin just months prior to the tragic killings, indicating that he was a victim of abuse. At that time, former District Attorney George Gascón confirmed that a crucial new court hearing is slated for November 29, 2024.

In a pivotal move, Gascón submitted a motion on October 30, 2024, actively supporting the Menendez brothers’ plea for clemency from Governor Gavin Newsom. He characterized the brothers as “model prisoners” and expressed to CNN his belief that there exists a compelling possibility they might be granted parole if their case is presented to the parole board. An attorney representing one of the brothers expressed optimism that they could potentially reunite with family just in time for Thanksgiving, highlighting the emotional weight of this ongoing struggle for freedom.

However, the landscape shifted dramatically when Gascón was succeeded by former federal prosecutor Nathan Hochman, who was sworn into office on December 2, 2024. Following his election victory, Hochman indicated that he would require a substantial amount of time to thoroughly review the extensive case files before establishing a clear position on the matter of resentencing.

“I will have to review the confidential prison files for each brother, analyze the transcripts from both trials, and engage in discussions with the prosecutors, law enforcement, defense attorneys, and the victims’ family members. Only after this comprehensive review can I arrive at an informed decision. Should I require additional time for this process, I will formally request it from the court,” Hochman stated, emphasizing the meticulous nature of his approach.

The scheduled resentencing hearing, initially set for December 11, 2024, was unexpectedly postponed. On November 25, 2024, Judge Jesic announced that he needed further time to thoroughly examine the case and wished to extend that same opportunity to District Attorney Hochman. As a result, new hearing dates were established for January 30 and 31, 2025, but these were subsequently postponed once more, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the case.

The Menendez brothers are now expected to appear in court on March 20, 2025, for a crucial hearing that will determine the potential for resentencing. However, District Attorney Hochman has made it clear that he intends to request the court to deny Lyle and Erik’s plea for a new trial, indicating a strong opposition to their claims.

“We reassessed the credibility of the letters in question, particularly this alleged letter from 1988 supposedly written by Erik Menendez to Andy Cano regarding this sexual abuse. It raises significant doubts about the authenticity of this document and whether it truly originates from 1988,” Hochman remarked, casting further shadows on the brothers’ assertions.

In February 2025, as the hearing approaches, California Governor Gavin Newsom has urged the parole board to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment of the Menendez brothers. This thorough investigation aims to ascertain whether they would present any danger to the public if they were to be granted the opportunity for parole.

In a significant development just weeks before their scheduled resentencing hearing, Hochman publicly stated that he does not support the brothers’ potential resentencing and accused them of perpetuating “lies” for many years, further complicating their path to freedom.

On April 11, a critical hearing presided over by Judge Jesic was held, during which it was announced that the resentencing proceedings would continue on April 17 and 18, marking another important moment in this ongoing legal saga.

Current Status of Lyle and Erik Menendez

Both Lyle and Erik Menendez are currently serving their sentences at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in California. The brothers were reunited in 2018 at this facility after having been initially separated and placed in different prisons following their 1996 conviction, a move that significantly impacted their relationship.

During their time apart, Lyle shared with PEOPLE in 2017 that despite the horrific nature of their crime, the ordeal ultimately strengthened their bond. They maintained communication through chess games played by mail and exchanged heartfelt letters. “We’re not twins, but when you’ve gone through the kind of chaotic childhood that we had, it’s almost like you are. You have that bond and that shared experience,” Lyle reflected, emphasizing the depth of their connection forged through shared trauma.