Why Erik Menendez’s Wife Is “Disappointed” by Resentencing Decision

Why Erik Menendez’s Wife Is "Disappointed" by Resentencing Decision

As I delve deeper into this captivating tale of love and adversity, I find myself utterly amazed by the resilience and fortitude displayed by Tammi Menendez. Her life story is a testament to the power of empathy, compassion, and the human spirit’s ability to endure even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.


Erik Menendez’s wife Tammi Menendez has mixed emotions.

In response to Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón’s statement about reconsidering the sentencing for Erik Menendez and his brother Lyle, who have recently gained renewed attention following their portrayal in Ryan Murphy’s anthology series “Monsters,” Erik’s spouse expressed her thoughts on social media.

“Yesterday was a difficult and emotional day,” she wrote on X (formerly Twitter) Oct. 25. “I am Grateful to DA Gascon for his courage to seek re-sentencing for Erik.”

Yet, Tammi expressed her hope that the suggestion had been stronger, as she felt a sense of natural disappointment for not seeing Erik and Lyle take action based on his own conviction that they had served adequate prison terms.

On October 24, the Los Angeles District Attorney announced plans to suggest a revised sentencing for the brothers who were originally given life sentences in 1996 for murdering their parents, José Menendez and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez, in 1989. This decision stems from recently discovered evidence that may support Erik and Lyle’s claim of sexual abuse by their father, which could potentially make them eligible for parole.

Regardless of Tammi’s mixed emotions, others have shown enthusiasm about the suggestion. Notably, Kim Kardashian, who had campaigned for their release following a visit to them in prison on Sept. 21 and penned an op-ed for NBC News, praised Gascón for his decision.

George Gascón decided to review the Menendez brothers’ case again, and today he granted them a second opportunity at life by making them eligible for a parole hearing. On Instagram, Kim expressed gratitude for this decision, as it corrects a considerable injustice,” is one way of rephrasing the original statement in a clear and easy-to-understand manner.

The individual named Cooper Koch, known for his role as Erik in Monsters, was there too during Kim’s visit, and he enthusiastically endorsed the suggestion as well.

Why Erik Menendez’s Wife Is "Disappointed" by Resentencing Decision

The actor, who doesn’t use social media, expressed heartfelt appreciation and optimism about the advancements we’ve witnessed today through his twin brother Payton Koch’s Instagram Stories. He mentioned that District Attorney Gascón’s suggestion has sparked a revitalized feeling of hope, suggesting that Lyle and Erik might finally be freed after spending several decades in prison.

However, Cooper warned the Menendezes’ legal fight is far from over.

He went on to say, “There are important actions left to be taken. The judge needs to approve the new sentencing, and should that occur, the parole board will need to consider the time they’ve already served as adequate for the crime.

“Our voices, our unwavering support, remain crucial,” Cooper concluded, “not just for the brothers to ensure their release, but also for every victim of sexual abuse fighting to be heard. I hope to see Erik and Lyle soon. Free from all of this.”

To learn more about Erik and Lyle’s wives, keep reading. 

Why Erik Menendez’s Wife Is "Disappointed" by Resentencing Decision

28-year-old Lyle Menendez tied the knot with model and salon receptionist Anna Eriksson on July 2, 1996. This was the same day he and his brother Erik were handed life sentences without the chance of parole for the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez.

In 1993, Anna began writing letters to Lyle while he was undergoing his initial trial, which ended inconclusively. The following year, she relocated to California to be closer to him. During the lengthy retrial that started in 1995 and concluded in March 1996, she proved to be a consistent companion, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.

Despite being unable to make their vows in person, Lyle opted to get married via telephone, with the groom detained and the bride present at defense attorney Leslie Abramson’s office.

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

Back in September 1996, Lt. Jack Pitko of California Correctional Institution informed the LA Times that there was indeed a marital process ongoing. He added that there was a queue for such procedures, but under the condition that all regulations are adhered to, he saw no reason why it shouldn’t be possible for the individual in question to get married.

In 2001, Anna decided to file for divorce, as it was reported that she had discovered Lyle was writing letters to other women.

Why Erik Menendez’s Wife Is "Disappointed" by Resentencing Decision

Lyle didn’t hastily get married to Rebecca Sneed, who was reportedly 33 at the time, in November 2003. Instead, he had known her for ten years before their wedding. Initially, they communicated through letters, and later on, they met in person. A prison spokesperson revealed this information to the Associated Press when confirming their marriage.

The event transpired at Mule Creek State Prison, situated close to Sacramento, where Lyle had been staying until his reunion with Erik in 2018, which occurred at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility located in southern San Diego County.

In 2017, Lyle explained to People that our discussions often take place without many interruptions, and they might be deeper than those of many married couples who are often preoccupied by life’s happenings. At that time, Rebecca resided in Sacramento and reportedly visited every week.

Lyle mentioned that we chat over the phone daily, occasionally multiple times a day. He shared that he has a deeply committed and consistent marriage which provides him with stability, tranquility, and happiness. This strong bond serves as a balance against the uncertain and high-stress work environment he’s in.

Rebecca “put up with a lot,” he acknowledged. “But she has the courage to deal with the obstacles. It would be easier to leave, but I’m profoundly grateful that she doesn’t.”

Why Erik Menendez’s Wife Is "Disappointed" by Resentencing Decision

In 1993, Tammi Menendez, who is now 62 years old and was then married to Chuck Saccoman, developed a unique affection for the younger brother of the Menendez brothers, Eric, after seeing him on TV as a 22-year-old murder suspect.

Later on, as she shared with People magazine, she conveyed to her spouse that she intended to correspond with Erik. In response, Chuck granted her his approval.

In response to the question, Erik mentioned that upon reading Tammi’s letter, he experienced an emotion. Out of all the letters he had received, this one stood out and warranted special attention. He felt a certain way about it. As a result, he penned a response. Over time, Tammi and Erik maintained their correspondence. Writing to her brought him joy. Their friendship developed slowly, making it particularly meaningful for Erik because it was separate from the trial and the media frenzy. Tammi was an individual who existed outside the chaos.

Initially, Tammi had her doubts about the brothers’ claim of abuse when detailed in her 2005 book They Said We’d Never Make It: My Life With Erik Menendez. In fact, she shared with MSNBC that Erik had spoken about having a girlfriend for several years earlier on.

However, it was revealed in 1996, as Tammi discussed in her book and interviews, that Chuck had been physically abusing his teenage daughter from a past relationship. At the time, they were both raising a nine-month-old child together.

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

Why Erik Menendez’s Wife Is "Disappointed" by Resentencing Decision

In 2005, she shared with the press that after Chuck passed away, she contacted Erik for support. He provided solace, and our correspondence gradually became more profound.

In a straightforward manner, Tammi confessed that she was extremely anxious when she first encountered Erik in the flesh at Folsom State Prison in August of 1997.

She clarified, “Erik hadn’t seen my image before; all he had was a small 1×1 picture from me. However, when he entered the room, his vibrant energy was palpable as he bounded down the steps. It felt as if I was greeting an old acquaintance.

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

Why Erik Menendez’s Wife Is "Disappointed" by Resentencing Decision

They have stayed together since then, but Tammi has admitted that not having regular visits can be challenging.

In MSNBC’s December 2005 broadcast, she explained their daily ritual: a greeting kiss upon arrival, another goodbye kiss. She added, “Holding hands is also part of it, and many find that aspect particularly challenging, as it’s not always easy to comprehend.

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

In 2005, I shared with People that Tammi serves as my source of strength. Pondering about the sentence brings on a deep sadness and an overwhelming sense of fear. It leaves me trembling cold. The thought is so terrifying that I still find it difficult to fully accept it.

Nevertheless, Erik added with a glimmer of hope, Tammi had shown him the art of being a great spouse. “Instead of makeup sex, it’s about a sincere 15-minute conversation, which means you truly need to strive for a harmonious relationship.

Read More

2024-10-28 23:19