Menendez brothers granted earlier parole hearing for 2027

Erik and Lyle Menendez, who are serving sentences for the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, have been granted an earlier parole hearing. Originally scheduled for August 2028, the California parole commission hearing has been moved up to March 2027.

The brothers were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole in 1996. However, following a legal review in May 2025, their sentences were modified to 50 years to life. Because they were minors at the time of the crime, they became eligible to apply for parole under California law.

A previous parole request was denied in August 2025. The commission cited Lyle’s antisocial behavior and tendencies toward lying, while Erik’s request was hindered by repeated prison rule violations. The brothers requested the expedited hearing date, and their request was accepted.