The hearings, held separately over two days via remote connection, offered a glimpse into the Menendez brothers' long-term imprisonment experiences. Erik, 54, faced parole commissioner Robert Barton, who emphasized that Erik's prison behavior, rather than the infamous killings, was a key factor in the denial. Barton criticized Erik for being involved in fights, drug-related offenses, and even a tax-fraud scheme tied to gang activity. Erik's possession of contraband items, including materials for making wine and artistic supplies, further showcased a troubling trend of "institutional misconduct" that highlighted a perceived lack of self-awareness.
In a turn of focus, Lyle, 57, conversed with commissioner Julie Garland, who acknowledged some changes he exhibited while serving his sentence. Nonetheless, Garland pointed out underlying anti-social personality traits, characterizing Lyle's behavior as one of deception and rule-breaking, which signaled potential risks for societal re-entry.
Both hearings underscored the brothers' illicit use of mobile phones within the prison, which is against regulations. Erik admitted that his desire to maintain connections outweighed concerns about the repercussions of being caught. The problem persisted for Lyle, whose recent mobile phone infractions included a guilty plea earlier this year.
The brothers also conveyed a deep sense of remorse while reflecting on their past actions. Erik described their decision to kill their parents as one he could hardly comprehend at the time due to the abuse they suffered, asserting that leaving home felt like a death sentence. Lyle echoed the sentiment, stating, "I'm profoundly sorry for who I was… for the harm that everyone has endured."
Support for the Menendez brothers came from several relatives during the hearings, with emotional pleas for clemency and understanding. Their aunt, Teresita Menendez-Baralt, expressed forgiveness, despite the gravity of their actions, while family members highlighted Lyle's efforts to aid fellow inmates during imprisonment.
Despite this familial support, commissioner Barton reiterated that personal relationships could coexist with considerations of public safety and individual readiness, culminating in the decisions to deny the brothers' parole requests.
In a turn of focus, Lyle, 57, conversed with commissioner Julie Garland, who acknowledged some changes he exhibited while serving his sentence. Nonetheless, Garland pointed out underlying anti-social personality traits, characterizing Lyle's behavior as one of deception and rule-breaking, which signaled potential risks for societal re-entry.
Both hearings underscored the brothers' illicit use of mobile phones within the prison, which is against regulations. Erik admitted that his desire to maintain connections outweighed concerns about the repercussions of being caught. The problem persisted for Lyle, whose recent mobile phone infractions included a guilty plea earlier this year.
The brothers also conveyed a deep sense of remorse while reflecting on their past actions. Erik described their decision to kill their parents as one he could hardly comprehend at the time due to the abuse they suffered, asserting that leaving home felt like a death sentence. Lyle echoed the sentiment, stating, "I'm profoundly sorry for who I was… for the harm that everyone has endured."
Support for the Menendez brothers came from several relatives during the hearings, with emotional pleas for clemency and understanding. Their aunt, Teresita Menendez-Baralt, expressed forgiveness, despite the gravity of their actions, while family members highlighted Lyle's efforts to aid fellow inmates during imprisonment.
Despite this familial support, commissioner Barton reiterated that personal relationships could coexist with considerations of public safety and individual readiness, culminating in the decisions to deny the brothers' parole requests.
