Hochman’s Victory Leaves Menendez Resentencing in Doubt

The recent election loss of Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón to Nathan Hochman has raised uncertainty about the fate of Erik and Lyle Menendez, who are seeking resentencing nearly 30 years after their murder convictions. Hochman, a former federal prosecutor, emphasized he needs time to review the case thoroughly before deciding on the resentencing recommendation that could lead to the brothers’ release.

“I will have to review the confidential prison files for each brother, the transcripts from both trials, and speak to the prosecutors, law enforcement, defense counsel, and the victims’ family members. Only then can I make a decision,” Hochman said. He added that if more time is required, he will ask the court for an extension. Hochman takes office on December 2, and the resentencing hearing is scheduled for December 11.

Legal experts believe the motion to resentence the Menendez brothers has significant momentum and could be difficult to stop. USC Gould School of Law professor Aya Gruber noted, “Unless there’s some contingency that immediately bubbles up and says, ‘You know, this is horrible. This is a miscarriage of justice,’ I can’t imagine that this is going to be a priority for the new DA.”

Gascón filed the resentencing motion in October after defense attorneys presented evidence in 2023 alleging years of abuse by Jose Menendez, arguing that this history had not been adequately considered during the original trials. The brothers were convicted of first-degree murder in 1996 for the 1989 killings of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in their Beverly Hills home.

Loyola Marymount University law professor Laurie Levenson explained that the Menendez brothers’ legal strategy hinges on the court’s decision regarding the resentencing. “Their best door for getting relief is the motion to reduce the sentence, and they might be able to get the court to do that,” Levenson said. She added, “I think that you’re not going to see Hochman having a press conference about the Menendez case. He can just quietly let the court decide.”

The brothers’ first trial, televised and closely followed, ended in a mistrial when jurors were unable to reach a verdict. During the second trial, crucial evidence about the alleged abuse was excluded, leading to their conviction and life sentences without parole. The case has recently gained renewed interest following Netflix’s “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” and a documentary featuring interviews with both brothers.

Critics of Gascón’s progressive policies, which included reducing incarceration and avoiding prosecution for certain nonviolent offenses, argued his approach compromised public safety. Hochman campaigned on these concerns, which contributed to his electoral victory. Despite this, Gruber said it is improbable that Hochman would make overturning Gascón’s resentencing recommendation a priority unless compelling new evidence surfaces.

Gascón has also supported the Menendez brothers’ clemency bid to California Governor Gavin Newsom, who could grant their release immediately. Newsom’s office has declined to comment on the matter, citing confidentiality around clemency requests.

CNN legal analyst Joey Jackson emphasized the weight of the DA’s opinion, even though it is ultimately up to the court and parole board. “It would be naive to suggest that a DA’s recommendation – and it’s a recommendation – is not otherwise really significant in terms of influencing a judge’s decision … But I do think public opinion is very much favoring the release of the Menendez brothers,” Jackson said.

The next steps in the case, including the December 11 hearing and potential clemency, will be pivotal. Gascón believes the brothers have paid their debt to society and should be given a chance at parole if deemed rehabilitated. As Hochman prepares to assume his role, the outcome of this high-profile case remains uncertain.

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