Erik Menendez Denied Parole, Remains Behind Bars After 35 Years

Erik Menendez, who alongside his brother Lyle has spent 35 years in prison for the 1989 murder of their parents, was denied parole on Thursday. California parole commissioners reached their decision after a lengthy 10-hour hearing, where Menendez argued for his rehabilitation and the potential for familial healing through his release.

Parole Commissioner Robert Barton stated that despite the family's support, Menendez still poses an unreasonable risk to public safety. The decision was based not on the severity of the crime but on Menendez's continued infractions within prison, such as drug smuggling and violence, which contradicted claims of exemplary behavior.

The parole board will next review Lyle Menendez's case, while Erik can reapply for parole in three years. Both brothers were initially sentenced to life without parole due to the brutality and calculated nature of their crime, against claims of abuse, and have been in custody since 1990.

(With inputs from agencies.)