Family members of Lyle and Erik Menendez, who are currently serving life sentences for killing their parents, are urging for their release as the district attorney’s office reviews new evidence in this high-profile case.

Over 20 relatives spoke to the media on Wednesday, requesting Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascon to release the brothers based on new evidence that they claim reveals the abuse inflicted by their father, Jose Menendez.

“I urge the district attorney’s office to end our long suffering and bring Lyle and Erik back to us,” stated José Menendez’s sister. “Thirty-five years is far too long. I hope to live long enough to see my nephews and embrace them once more.”

Lyle and Erik Menendez were found guilty in 1996 of murdering their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, after an initial trial in 1989 was declared a mistrial due to extensive media coverage.

Both brothers have maintained that they acted in self-defense, claiming they were sexually abused by their parents. Meanwhile, prosecutors argued that the abuse claims were fabricated and that the brothers were motivated by financial gain. Their defense team and family advocates have pointed out that crucial evidence concerning the alleged abuse was not presented during the second trial.

The case has recently gained renewed attention, sparked by a series of documentaries and a contentious true crime series, prompting the district attorney’s office to take a closer look at it.

This is what we know about the new evidence and the current assessment by the district attorney’s office:

New evidence includes a letter supposedly written by a Menendez brother

The new evidence being examined includes a letter allegedly written by Erik Menendez to his cousin, Andy Cano, where he hints at ongoing abuse he experienced.

A portion of this letter, which the defense claims was written eight months prior to the killings, is part of the 2023 habeas corpus petition submitted by the brothers’ lawyers.

The excerpt reads: “I’ve been trying to stay away from dad. It’s still happening, Andy, but it’s worse for me now. I never know when it will happen, and it’s driving me insane. I lie awake each night worrying he might come in.”

The letter continues: “I know what you mentioned before, but I’m scared. You don’t really know my dad like I do. He’s unpredictable! He has threatened me countless times about telling anyone.”

Authorities are also reviewing claims made by a member of the 1980s pop band Menudo who alleged abuse by Jose Menendez, a music executive. These claims were highlighted in the documentary series “Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed,” released last year.

Family demands the release of the Menendez brothers

On Wednesday, the Menendez brothers’ family reiterated that the siblings should either be released or given a new trial, citing the new evidence and advances in understanding sexual abuse survivors.

“If Lyle and Erik’s case were judged today, considering our current knowledge about abuse and PTSD, I have no doubt their sentencing would have been entirely different,” commented Anamaria Baralt, a niece of José Menendez.

“It’s time to acknowledge the injustice they’ve faced and give them the second chance they warrant,” she added. “We now come together, with both sides of the family united, sharing a renewed hope.”

Joan VanderMolen, sister of Kitty Menendez, explained that the family was previously unaware of the extent of the brothers’ abuse. She emphasized that “abuse has long-lasting effects, and trauma victims sometimes behave in ways that are hard to comprehend.”

“I had no idea the depth of the abuse they endured at the hands of my brother-in-law; none of us did,” she stated.

The attorney’s office has recognized the changes in the criminal justice system when it comes to dealing with cases involving sexual abuse victims.

“Our office has gained a more contemporary perspective on sexual violence since the Menendez brothers were first prosecuted,” they stated. “We now understand that sexual violence is a widespread problem that impacts numerous individuals, regardless of their gender identity. We are devoted to aiding all victims as they cope with the significant effects of such trauma.”

DA’s office is ‘assessing all possibilities’ for Menendez cases

On Wednesday, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office released a statement indicating that they have met with the Menendez family and are dedicated to “ensuring justice is achieved.”

“We have listened to the sincere appeals from the Menendez family for a case review. Although we can’t officially comment on specific decisions at this moment, please understand that our office is committed to a fair and thorough process and is examining all potential options available to us to ensure justice is achieved,” the statement mentioned.

The office’s resentencing unit is currently reviewing the cases, with a focus on rehabilitation and behavior throughout the time served, as noted in the statement. Meanwhile, the writs and appeals division is investigating new evidence and examining the validity of evidence from the previous trials.

“Prosecutors are still pursuing complete documentation of the defense’s claims,” the statement added. “The office is working as swiftly as justice allows.”

If the brothers are resentenced, Erik and Lyle Menendez could potentially be released from prison after serving 35 years for the murder of their parents. Other outcomes could include reduced sentences or even a new trial, according to the district attorney’s office.

The next court appearance is set for November 26.