Every Twist in the Menendez Brothers Murder Case

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The true focus has never been on what exactly transpired on August 20, 1989, involving Erik Menendez and Lyle Menendez.

Instead, let me ask you, what motivated the Menendez brothers to take the lives of their parents, Jose Menendez and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez?

Lyle and Erik assert that their father subjected them to abuse, while their mother remained silent, which they felt endangered their lives. With growing vocalization, many relatives stand behind the siblings, advocating that they should not serve extended prison sentences due to their convictions.

To date, the California Parole Board has shown opposition to the proposal, declining to grant parole for either Erik (age 54) or Lyle (age 57), at their respective hearings on August 21st and August 22nd.

In response to denying parole for Erik, Parole Commissioner Robert Barton expressed his deep sympathy, stating, “This is indeed a heartbreaking situation. The loss of not just two, but four family members in this case is truly devastating.

36 years have passed since that fateful night when the brothers took the lives of their parents at their Beverly Hills residence, but it wasn’t until last May that the distant hope of stepping out from behind bars became a possibility. They were once again sentenced to spend their lives in prison, now with the remote chance of parole someday.

I can hardly contain my excitement when I reflect on how far the captivating journey might never have advanced without the Emmy-worthy Netflix production, “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story“. This series sparked conversations everywhere, even reaching out to Erik himself.

Erik expressed in a message sent on September 19, when the show first aired on his wife Tammi Menendez’s social media platform, that he felt the show had continued to spread false and damaging depictions of Lyle. He suggested that these distorted representations were intentionally created.

He described it as a “disturbing storyline,” filled with “reprehensible and shocking depictions” of both him and Lyle, along with “discouraging accusations.

Executive producer Ryan Murphy had a different take.

Murphy stated to The Hollywood Reporter on October 1, “The Menendez brothers ought to be sending me bouquets. They haven’t received this level of interest in three decades.

Mark Geragos, the lawyer for Menendez, did not refute the point that sensational media coverage might have been beneficial, although it was salacious in nature.

During a press conference on October 16th, the lawyer remarked that when Ryan Murphy’s series was released, it was so exaggerated that it sparked a backlash. This backlash, in turn, led to increased scrutiny of the series, causing many people to take a closer look at it.

Previously serving Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón initially endorsed the idea that parole could be an option and voiced his approval for the brothers’ appeal for clemency. However, after he was removed from office in November, his successor Nathan Hochman did not share this view. Nevertheless, the hearing to reconsider their sentences proceeded.

It is undeniable that around 10 p.m., during that specific night, Jose, aged 45, was fatally shot in the back of his head with a 12-gauge shotgun. This tragic incident occurred within the family’s spacious home on Elm Drive, which measures approximately 9,000 square feet. On this fateful evening, Jose and Kitty, who is 47 years old and his wife of 26 years, were peacefully watching a movie in their den when the incident occurred.

In the hallway, she was discovered sprawled in a puddle of blood, having been wounded in her arms, chest, and facial area by gunshots. Additionally, both she and Jose sustained injuries to their knees from gunshot wounds as well.

The bodyguard who worked for Lyle testified at the 1993 murder trial that his client believed his parents had been killed, possibly by the cartel or the mafia. This client claimed to be living in constant fear for his own life because of this event.

After confessing later on, it was revealed that Lyle and Erik had driven off with the guns they used to kill their parents, discarding them along Mulholland Drive. They also tossed away the empty shotgun cartridges and their blood-stained clothes in a gas station dumpster. Later, they purchased movie tickets in Century City for a film they never watched, followed by an unsuccessful search for one of Lyle’s friends in Santa Monica who might have provided them with an alibi.

They returned home, and it was there that Lyle, who was 21 years old at the time, made an emergency call to 911 at 11:47 pm, tearfully informing the operator, “Someone has murdered my parents!

Instead of going to watch the newest Bond film, License to Kill, as they had initially planned, they ended up seeing Batman at the movies instead due to a long queue. Later on, they mentioned that they attended the Taste of L.A. festival in Santa Monica and later returned home where they discovered their parents deceased.

Directly after the killings, Lyle – a graduate of a prestigious prep school who had been expelled from Princeton for plagiarism and was known for wearing Rolex watches – returned to New Jersey. There, he took a test drive in a Porsche, went shopping for new clothes, and made a down payment of $300,000 on a restaurant specializing in buffalo wings in Princeton, N.J., which is where both Lyle and Erik were born. This was later in the same year.

At his parents’ funeral, as quoted by his college friend Glenn Stevens, Lyle remarked, “I’ve been anticipating this moment for so long, I’m ready for it.

In those days, I, being an 18-year-old enthusiast, splurged on a personal tennis mentor, while my brothers and I cruised around sunny Los Angeles in our late mother’s convertible Mercedes. We jet-setted to London, followed by a tropical getaway in the Caribbean. On return, we opted for a couple of luxurious penthouse abodes in Marina del Rey, California.

Gosh, I can’t even begin to express how quickly my savings dwindled after that traumatic experience! Over six months, I found myself spending close to a million dollars. People might find this hard to fathom, but folks react differently when they go through something as harrowing as what I experienced.

On October 31, 1989, it was Erik who disclosed to his therapist, Dr. Jerome Oziel, that he and his brother Lyle had committed the act of killing their parents. Later on the same day, Lyle also admitted to this crime, with Dr. Oziel characterizing Erik as displaying anger and an intimidating demeanor.

On November 2nd, Oziel once more encountered both siblings. It was then that Lyle confided in the psychologist that they, Lyle and Erik, had discussed the possibility of harming Oziel. This information was later corroborated by the psychologist’s testimony.

Oziel stated that his former girlfriend informed the police, following an incident on October 31st, when he returned home and disclosed to her some information that was important for her to know.

On March 8, 1990, LAPD officers took Lyle into custody. Erik handed himself in when he returned to Los Angeles three days afterwards, following his participation in a tennis tournament in Israel.

But the question of doctor-patient privilege helped prevent the case from going to trial for years.

A judge decided that Lyle’s threat towards Oziel invalidated the brothers’ claim to confidentiality. The defense successfully argued that what Erik shared with his therapist was private, but this ruling was overturned by the California State Supreme Court. However, they allowed Oziel’s tape-recorded notes – not the confessions themselves – as evidence in court.

In December 1992, Lyle and Erik faced premeditated murder accusations. Initially, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office declared their intention to pursue capital punishment against them.

Two years prior to the highly publicized O.J. Simpson murder trial that would redefine media coverage and mark a turning point for cable news, the initial murder trial of the Menendez brothers was broadcast extensively on Court TV, generating national fascination.

At that point in time, the defense presented their argument, claiming that Lyle and Erik resorted to self-defense following years of physical and sexual assault they had endured.

In September 1993, Lyle asserted that both Jose and Kitty sexually abused him when he was between the ages of 6 and 8, with Kitty continuing to engage in inappropriate behavior towards him until he turned 13. He testified in court that she would bathe him and encourage him to share a bed with her until he was 13, after which she persistently bothered and acted inappropriately towards him. Lyle claimed his parents were physically abusive towards him well into his teenage years. Additionally, when he began dating, Kitty allegedly referred to his girlfriends as “gold diggers” and “bimbos.

At the witness stand, Lyle shared that five days before the tragic events, Kitty tore off his wig during an altercation. He recounted that this was the first time Erik witnessed him without a wig, and furthermore, he stated that his younger brother, Jose, had continued to subject him to sexual abuse – a fact that was confirmed by young Erik’s tearful revelation.

As I once viewed my experiences as incidents that only affected young males, Lyle shared in the courtroom, he and Erik decided it was time to address this issue head-on with our father, a decision we both made.

When Jose was cautioned by someone (possibly the defendant) to stay away from Erik or they’d reveal his secrets, their father responded, according to testimony given by Lyle, “‘Everyone makes decisions in life. Erik made his. You made yours.'” The defendant further explained, “I believed we were in peril. I felt he had no other option. He would kill us. He’d dispose of us somehow. Since I was going to expose him.

Inquired about why they hadn’t contacted the authorities instead, Lyle explained that he thought the police wouldn’t be able to assist due to his father being a wealthy and influential man.

On the fateful night of the murders, during his testimony, Lyle stated that Jose instructed him to remain isolated upstairs in his room. Overwhelmed by the suspicion that their parents intended to harm them, they chose to act preemptively, as Lyle relayed to the court. As a result, he declared, he and Erik retrieved the shotguns they had purchased in San Diego from their vehicle and marched into the den, unleashing gunfire.

Lyle explained in court that they had made a decision prior not to inform the police about what occurred.

Oziel stated, out of the jury’s hearing, that the brothers appeared extremely delighted about managing to commit these crimes undetected.

In August 1993, the psychologist presented evidence to the court stating that the brothers confided in him about their plan to murder their father due to his overbearing personality. They feared their mother might testify against them, so they also resolved to eliminate her.

According to Oziel’s testimony, the brothers believed they had carried out the “ultimate undetectable act,” as he claimed they informed him that after the crime, they reloaded their guns when their mother was attempting to escape on all fours.

In January 1994, during the initial trial, both sets of jurors for the brothers found themselves unable to reach a verdict after their simultaneous hearings. Tragically, neither jury managed to come to an agreement by the trial’s end that month.

The trial of the siblings, before a single jury, commenced in October 1995, overseen by Judge Stanley Weisberg at the L.A. County Superior Court. In his courtroom, Judge Weisberg prohibited the use of cameras and denied the defense the opportunity to argue that the brothers harbored the belief their parents were about to harm them if they didn’t act first.

On March 20, 1996, Erik once more took the stand, while Lyle chose not to testify. In the end, both brothers were convicted for two counts of first-degree murder under exceptional circumstances, along with a charge of conspiring to commit murder.

As a dedicated follower, I can share that during the final stage of proceedings, the jury decided against ending my life. Instead, they suggested a sentence of life imprisonment with no chance for parole.

Charles Gessler, the defense attorney, shared with reporters that Lyle appears relaxed following the jury’s verdict, as he yearns for life.

Leslie Abramson, Erik’s lawyer, remarked positively, stating, “They are such remarkable individuals that I believe they will manage to be productive members of society.” Furthermore, some jurors shared this sentiment, anticipating that they would both make valuable contributions to our community.

Lesley Hillings, a juror, shared with the Los Angeles Times following the trial that they collectively considered there might have been some degree of psychological manipulation. However, as for sexual abuse, they expressed doubts about whether it occurred or not, acknowledging their uncertainty on the matter.

Their final noteworthy encounter took place during an interview they conducted in jail, which aired on June 28, 1996, mere days prior to their official sentencing, with Barbara Walters serving as the mediator.

Erik asserted, “I’m merely an ordinary child,” which later led to Walter famously retorting, “Ah, Erik, you’re an ordinary child who murdered your parents.

Regarding the viewpoint that my brother and I are seen as ungrateful monsters, Erik clarified, “I don’t identify with that image, however, I can’t refute it either. Just because we were born into a wealthy family doesn’t automatically mean we were spoiled.

Lyle remarked, “It’s unlikely that anyone who attended the entire trial and witnessed it firsthand, rather than just catching glimpses on the news, wouldn’t find themselves feeling differently about it.

Afterward, Erik Menendez was confined at Folsom State Prison, later moved to Pleasant Valley State Prison, while Lyle ended up in Mule Creek State Prison in Ione.

The appellate court confirmed their guilty verdict in February 1998, and the requests for reconsideration were rejected in May as well.

Lyle and Erik didn’t cross paths again until April 2018, which came two months after an application among Lyle’s handful of transfer requests was approved, leading to his placement in the same living quarters as Erik at Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility, situated in southern San Diego County.

In simpler terms, Lyle shared with DailyMailTV about their emotional reunion after a gap of 22 years. He had to walk a long distance to meet the person, and when he finally saw him being transported in a van, his emotions took over. Uncertain about how he would react, Lyle ended up feeling an overwhelming surge of feelings which led him to break down in tears.

However, Erik was simply marvelous, leading him to express, “I’m not sure I’ve fully healed from our separation. Reuniting feels like closing an old wound. It’s been a quarter of a century since the trials; I believe that’s ample time.

As an ardent admirer, I’ve been deeply engrossed in their story. Even Lyle himself, during a 2017 prison interview, admitted that what they did once seemed beyond comprehension now. Yet, despite the passage of time and changes in perspective, these brothers have remained steadfast to the motive they initially presented three decades ago.

Erik explained to the parole board in August 2025 that leaving was equivalent to death for him, which is why he hadn’t reported his father to the police. He admitted that this may seem utterly illogical and impractical now, but at the time it held immense weight in his mind.

Over the course of time, “Erik noted that his mom seemed to be in harmony with his father,” he stated. “That evening, they appeared as a single entity to me. If she hadn’t been there, things might have played out differently,” he speculated.

Recognizing the numerous family members advocating for Erik’s freedom, Parole Commissioner Barton stated, “It’s possible to both hold deep affection and forgiveness towards someone, yet still determine them unfit for parole.

Among those advocating for Lyle and Erik’s freedom are their spouses, who tied the knot with them during their imprisonment. Learn more about the wives of the Menendez brothers in the following passage.

On July 2, 1996, Lyle Menendez, who was then 28 years old, tied the knot with model and salon receptionist Anna Eriksson. This was the same day that he and his brother Erik Menendez were handed a life sentence in prison, without the possibility of parole, for the 1989 killings of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez.

Anna began correspondencing with Lyle back in 1993 during his initial court case that concluded as a mistrial. In the year that followed, she relocated to California to be closer to him. She proved to be a consistent figure during the lengthy retrial that commenced in 1995 and extended until March 1996, culminating in his convictions, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.

Despite needing to take their vows physically, Lyle opted for a phone ceremony instead. In this unusual setup, Lyle was the groom in custody while the bride was present at Leslie Abramson’s law office.

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He seemingly hoped to be able to wed Anna in person, once he knew where he’d end up.

Back in September of 1996, Lt. Jack Pitko from California Correctional Institution informed the Los Angeles Times that there indeed was a divorce process ongoing. He further stated that there were many other requests for marriage in the institution, but due to a waiting list, it wasn’t immediate. However, he didn’t see any reason why the person in question couldn’t get married if they obeyed all the rules.

In 2001, Anna decided to seek a divorce following numerous media accounts suggesting that she discovered Lyle had been correspondence with other women.

When Lyle tied the knot with journalist Rebecca Sneed in November 2003, he didn’t make hasty decisions. They had been acquainted for ten years – initially through letters and later meeting in person – as a prison spokesperson shared with the Associated Press, confirming their marriage.

The event occurred at Mule Creek State Prison, located not far from Sacramento – a place where Lyle had been staying until his reunion with Erik in 2018, which took place at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility situated in southern San Diego County.

In a 2017 interview with People, Lyle stated that our conversations typically lack distractions and are often more personal than what many married couples might have, given they’re frequently preoccupied by everyday life occurrences. At that time, Rebecca resided in Sacramento, reportedly visiting on a weekly basis.

Lyle mentioned that we chat over the phone daily, sometimes multiple times, to keep in touch. He shared that he has a solid, engaged marriage which provides him with stability, tranquility, and happiness. This stable relationship serves as a balancing force against the unpredictable and high-stress work environment.

Rebecca endured much, he admitted. Yet, she demonstrates immense courage in overcoming hurdles. Leaving would have been simpler, but I am deeply appreciative that she chooses not to.

Despite the hopeful circumstances surrounding the potential reconsideration and release of Lyle and Erik in the near future, Rebecca clarified that she and Lyle have parted ways.

She posted on her Facebook page on November 22 that she and Lyle have been apart for some time but are still close friends and consider each other family. She continues to manage his Facebook accounts, taking his input into account, and remains steadfast in her long-term efforts towards obtaining their freedom, as demonstrated throughout the years.

She noted, “I’ll keep you informed about the advancements in this case as I strongly feel that we share a mutual aim – securing their release. Rest assured, I won’t falter in my efforts to fight for them.

Since gossip from tabloids doesn’t cease even beyond the walls of a prison, the post additionally mentioned, “This is NOT a case of infidelity.

In 1993, as I tuned into the news, a captivating 22-year-old named Erik Menendez caught my eye – the young man on trial for murder. Little did I know then that this enigmatic figure would soon occupy a unique corner of my heart. At that time, I was Tammi Menendez, married to Chuck Saccoman, but fate had other plans for me.

Later on, as she shared with People magazine, she conveyed to her husband that she intended to pen a letter to Erik. And interestingly enough, Chuck granted his approval for this action.

In simpler terms, Erik shared with the publication that upon reading Tammi’s letter, he experienced a unique emotion. Out of all the letters he received, this one stood out, prompting him to respond. He went on to exchange more correspondence with Tammi and found enjoyment in their exchanges. Their friendship developed gradually, and it was particularly meaningful for Erik because it wasn’t connected to the trial or media frenzy that surrounded his life. Tammi was someone who offered a respite from the chaos.

Initially, Tammi expressed doubts about the validity of the brothers’ claim of abuse, as revealed in her 2005 book They Said We’d Never Make It: My Life With Erik Menendez. She also mentioned that Erik had a girlfriend for several years, according to an early conversation she had with MSNBC.

However, in the year 1996, it was revealed by Tammi in her book and public discussions that Chuck had been physically abusing his daughter from a past relationship, who was still a teenager at the time. They were also parents to a child of about nine months.

Chuck turned himself into police and died by suicide two days later, according to People.

In 2005, she shared with the media that following Chuck’s passing, she contacted Erik. He provided comfort, and our correspondence gradually became more profound.

In a straightforward manner, Tammi confessed that she was quite anxious when she personally encountered Erik for the first time at Folsom State Prison in August 1997.

She clarified that Erik had never seen her image as all he’d received was a small, 1×1 pixel picture. However, when he entered the room, his vibrant energy reminded her of descending a staircase. It felt as if she was reconnecting with a long-lost friend.

They married in 1999, a Twinkie serving as their wedding cake. 

They’ve remained a couple since then, but Tammi has admitted that not having regular visits can be challenging.

In MSNBC’s interview in December 2005, she characterized a regular practice as: “A greeting kiss when you arrive, a farewell kiss when you depart.” She went on to explain that while holding hands is involved, it can be quite challenging and often misunderstood by others.

Erik mentioned he made an effort to avoid contemplating the possibility that his imprisonment might be permanent.

He shared in an interview with People in 2005 that Tammi is his source of strength. When he tries to contemplate the sentence, he does so with deep sadness and a raw sense of fear that causes him to break out in a cold sweat. The thought is so terrifying that he hasn’t yet fully processed it.

However, on a brighter side, Tammi had shown him the way of being a devoted spouse, as Erik explained. “We don’t resort to making up through intimacy; instead, it’s about a 15-minute conversation to sort things out and genuinely working towards resolution.

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2025-08-24 17:18