Summary
Erik Menendez, who was convicted in 1996 for murdering his parents, was denied parole by a California board due to ongoing misbehavior in prison. The board noted his rule violations, such as using a cellphone, as reasons for the decision. Menendez will be eligible for parole again in three years.
Key Facts
- Erik Menendez was convicted for killing his parents in 1989 along with his brother, Lyle.
- Menendez's parole was denied mainly due to his conduct in prison, not the seriousness of his crime.
- Commissioners cited his repeated cellphone use as evidence of rule-breaking.
- Menendez's brother, Lyle, has a separate parole hearing scheduled.
- The Menendez brothers have been serving life sentences since 1996.
- Defense attorneys argued the brothers acted in self-defense against alleged abuse, but prosecutors said they wanted an inheritance.
- A judge recently lessened their sentences, making them eligible for parole.
- Despite family support, the board found Erik Menendez unsuitable for release at this time.
