Shock Parole Denial: What’s Next for the Menendez Brothers Behind Bars?

Ever wonder if some people just can’t shake their old habits no matter how many second chances they get? Well, the Menendez brothers are giving us a front-row seat to that exact conundrum. On August 21st, Erik Menendez endured a grueling 10-hour virtual parole hearing only to be told he still poses an “unreasonable risk to public safety,” despite a moderate risk assessment. His colorful prison résumé—featuring drug use, tax-fraud scams, and a few brawls—didn’t exactly impress Parole Commissioner Robert Barton, who called out Erik’s lack of self-awareness and ongoing rule-breaking. The very next day, Lyle Menendez faced a similar fate, with the parole board acknowledging his remorse but pointing out his persistent anti-social tendencies lurking beneath a polished surface. The message? Change isn’t just about talking the talk—it’s about walking the walk, behind closed doors and beyond. Curious about the full drama and what happens next for the brothers? LEARN MORE.

On August 21, Erik appeared in the 10-hour virtual parole hearing, during which he faced denial as Parole Commissioner Robert Barton said they found he continues “to pose an unreasonable risk to public safety.” A risk assessment determined he is at moderate risk if granted parole and released.

“While we give great weight to youth offender factors, your continued willingness to commit crimes and violate prison rules,” said Barton, citing Erik’s drug use, tax-fraud scam, and involvement in fights while in prison.

According to the parole commissioner, Erik’s behavior and “institutional misconduct showed a lack of self-awareness” prompted the refusal.

The following day, Parole Commissioner Julie Garland gave Lyle the same outcome. Although the parole board acknowledged his remorse and changes, they believe Lyle still “struggles with anti-social personality traits like deception, minimization, and rule breaking that lie beneath that positive surface.”

Garland told Lyle the denial is “not the end,” adding, “It’s a way for you to spend some time to demonstrate, to practice what you preach about who you are, who you want to be. Don’t be somebody different behind closed doors.”