The Los Angeles prosecutors are reviewing new evidence brought forth by the attorneys of Erik and Lyle Menendez, who were convicted of killing their parents in 1989. The new evidence includes allegations of sexual abuse against the brothers, with one claiming to have been molested by their father. The prosecutors are considering resentencing the brothers based on their level of rehabilitation and conduct in prison. If resentenced, the brothers could potentially be released after serving 35 years. A petition on Change.org, with over 365,000 signatures, seeks to get a new trial or reduced sentence for the Menendez brothers. Kim Kardashian and others have also shown support for their release, highlighting the changes in societal understanding of sexual abuse and trauma since the time of the brothers’ trial. The review of the new evidence and potential resentencing will be discussed in a hearing on Nov. 29. Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón emphasized the importance of recognizing that both men and women can be victims of sexual assault, referencing other high-profile cases of male sexual abuse. Ultimately, the review and potential resentencing of the Menendez brothers bring up questions about justice, rehabilitation, and the impacts of past trauma on individuals’ actions and punishment.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
