2024-11-20 00:38:00
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom says he won’t decide whether to prosecute Eric Menand, who was convicted of murder nearly 35 years ago, until new Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Johnson takes office. Brothers Si and Lyle Menendez were granted clemency.
Prosecutors last month recommended resentencing for the brothers’ 1989 murders of their parents in their Beverly Hills home. .
Gascón, who was backed by Newsom, lost re-election earlier this month, so the governor said he would give new prosecutors time to review the case.
“The governor respects the role of district attorneys in ensuring the administration of justice and recognizes that voters are trusting the next District Attorney Hochman to discharge that responsibility,” the governor’s office said in a statement released Monday. “The governor is doing just that. “The elected prosecutor’s review and analysis of the Menendez case will be considered before any decision is made.”
Hochman told The Associated Press last week that he could not comment on the new sentencing recommendation until he had time to review confidential documents related to the brothers.
The brothers were initially sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole in 1996.
Lyle Menendez, then 21, and Erik Menendez, then 18, admitted to shooting their father, entertainment executive Jose Menendez Jose Menendez and mother Kitty Menendez.
They were tried twice for the murder of their parents; the first trial ended in a mistrial. The brothers said they feared their parents would kill them to prevent their father’s long-term sexual abuse of Eric Menendez from coming to light. Prosecutors argued they murdered the parents for financial gain and insisted no such sexual abuse ever occurred.
The brothers’ extended family called for their release. Several of their relatives said that in today’s world – a world more aware of the impact of sexual abuse – the brothers would not have been found guilty of premeditated murder or sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
The brothers’ lawyers first requested that the case be retried in May 2023.
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This story was translated from English by AP editors with the help of generated artificial intelligence tools.
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What insights does Governor Gavin Newsom share about the role of new leadership in shaping the direction of ongoing legal cases in California?
**Interview with California Governor Gavin Newsom**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Governor Newsom. Let’s dive right into the recent developments in the Menendez case. Can you explain why you’re waiting for the new Los Angeles County District Attorney, Nathan Johnson, to take office before making a decision on Eric Menand’s prosecution?
**Governor Newsom:** Absolutely, it’s important to ensure a thoughtful and fair process as we navigate these complex cases. Eric Menand has been convicted for nearly 35 years, and with new leadership in the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office, I believe it’s crucial to allow them the opportunity to review the details of the case thoroughly. The administration of justice requires a fresh perspective, and I have confidence in DA Johnson’s ability to make an informed decision.
**Interviewer:** There was significant public interest following the clemency granted to Si and Lyle Menendez. How does that factor into your considerations regarding Menand’s prosecution?
**Governor Newsom:** The clemency granted to the Menendez brothers is a significant factor, as it highlights the evolving conversation around justice, accountability, and rehabilitation. Each case is unique, and while the actions regarding the Menendez brothers might influence public discourse, my focus remains on ensuring that each individual case is reviewed on its own merits, taking into account new evidence or considerations that may have emerged over the years.
**Interviewer:** Under the previous administration of DA George Gascón, this case took a different direction. With his recent loss in the election, what changes do you anticipate with Nathan Johnson’s leadership?
**Governor Newsom:** Change can bring about new policies and priorities in the DA’s office. I appreciate that every new district attorney brings their own vision for justice. It will be interesting to see how DA Johnson approaches cases like Menard’s, particularly in relation to how he views the balance between justice and mercy. I believe in giving him the time necessary to outline his approach and assess this case thoughtfully.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what message do you want to convey to the public regarding the justice system’s approach to historical cases like this one?
**Governor Newsom:** It’s vital for the public to understand that our justice system is dynamic and responsive. Cases that are decades old are often revisited, with new insights and societal norms at play. This speaks to our commitment to justice, fairness, and the possibility of redemption. I want to assure Californians that we will approach these sensitive matters with care and integrity, ensuring that justice is truly served.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Governor Newsom, for sharing your insights on this important issue.
**Governor Newsom:** Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss these important matters with you.