Judge to hear arguments over whether LA prosecutor should be kicked off Menendez case

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 11:48 am

**Menendez Brothers Resentencing: Judge to Decide if LA Prosecutors Should Be Removed**

Los Angeles attorneys for Erik and Lyle Menendez, convicted of murdering their parents in 1989, will argue Friday for the removal of Los Angeles County prosecutors from the brothers' resentencing case. The brothers, who were sentenced to life in prison without parole in 1996 for the murders of their parents, entertainment executive Jose Menendez and Kitty Menendez, are seeking a reduced sentence.

The current District Attorney, Nathan Hochman, opposes the resentencing, reversing the position of his predecessor, George Gascn, who had sought a reduced sentence. Hochman argues the brothers haven't taken full responsibility for their crimes. Defense attorneys, however, claim Hochman's bias and mistreatment of the Menendez family warrant his removal from the case, potentially handing the case to the state attorney general's office.

Key arguments for removal include Hochman's demotion of two deputy district attorneys who initially supported resentencing, his hiring of an attorney who opposed the brothers' resentencing, and his office's alleged violation of Marsy's Law, which protects victims' rights. The defense also points to Hochman's presence at a rally condemning the resentencing.

However, California Attorney General Rob Bonta has sided with Hochman, arguing no conflict of interest exists. Legal experts suggest such recusal requests are rarely granted. The final hearing, scheduled for June 13, will influence whether Governor Gavin Newsom grants the brothers clemency. The case is further complicated by ongoing debates over the admissibility of risk assessment materials.

Keywords: Menendez brothers, resentencing, Los Angeles, prosecutors, Nathan Hochman, George Gascn, Erik Menendez, Lyle Menendez, murder, Jose Menendez, Kitty Menendez, recusal, conflict of interest, Marsy's Law, clemency, Gavin Newsom, Mark Geragos, sexual abuse, parole, California Attorney General, Rob Bonta

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