Newly discovered letter supports Menendez brothers’ abuse claims, raises new allegation – will convictions be overturned?

Lyle and Erik Menendez, who were convicted of killing their parents in 1989, have been behind bars for over three decades. However, new evidence has emerged that may change their fate. Lyle recently spoke with “48 Hours,” discussing the new claims and evidence that have surfaced. The focus of the case has always been on why they committed the crime, with the brothers claiming self-defense due to a lifetime of abuse at the hands of their parents.

The Menendez murders shocked the nation in 1989, with the brothers claiming they found their parents shot to death in their Beverly Hills mansion. Investigators initially suspected foul play related to the father’s business dealings, but eventually turned their attention to Lyle and Erik due to their unusual behavior following the crime. The brothers’ extravagant spending and behavior at memorial services raised suspicions, leading to a tip from a psychologist’s girlfriend that ultimately led to their arrest.

The Menendez brothers went on trial in the early 1990s, with their defense arguing that the killings were an act of self-defense due to years of abuse. Both Lyle and Erik testified to the abuse they suffered, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. The defense called witnesses to corroborate their claims, but prosecutors argued that even if the abuse occurred, murder was not justified. After a mistrial, a second trial resulted in convictions for first-degree murder and life sentences for the brothers in a unanimous jury decision.

Recently, new evidence has emerged in the form of a letter written by Erik Menendez to his cousin describing the abuse he endured. Additionally, a former member of the boy band Menudo has come forward alleging sexual abuse by Jose Menendez, further supporting the brothers’ claims. The defense has filed a habeas petition based on this new evidence, seeking to vacate the convictions. The case is pending a judge’s ruling, with the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office investigating the claims.

While some family members believe the new evidence validates the brothers’ claims and should lead to their release, others, including Kitty Menendez’s brother, remain skeptical. The decision to retry the case, if their convictions are vacated, rests with the District Attorney’s Office. Lyle and Erik, who remain focused on rehabilitation and education, are awaiting a decision on their fate. The future of the Menendez brothers remains uncertain as they wait for a ruling in their long-running case.