California Governor Gavin Newsom has directed the state’s parole board to investigate whether Erik and Lyle Menendez, who are serving life in prison for the 1989 murders of their parents, pose an “unreasonable” public safety risk if released. The announcement comes after their attorneys filed a clemency request and Los Angeles’ top prosecutor opposed their efforts to overturn their convictions. The brothers are also seeking a reduction in their sentences through a resentencing process. The governor’s new podcast, “This is Gavin Newsom,” revealed that public safety experts and psychologists will conduct a risk assessment to determine the brothers’ potential threat to the public if released. The findings will be shared with the district attorney and the court overseeing their resentencing. The Menendez family’s lawyers expressed gratitude for the governor’s actions, acknowledging that this step does not guarantee their release but allows for a fair decision after 35 years in prison. The brothers initially claimed self-defense due to years of sexual abuse by their father, but prosecutors argued the motive was financial and highlighted the violent nature of the killings. Former Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón supported clemency and resentencing for the brothers, with a hearing scheduled for the resentencing effort next month.
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