The family of Lyle and Erik Menendez are facing a crisis after an elderly relative was hospitalized following a court hearing on Friday, prompting calls for accountability from the brothers’ supporters.
Terry Baralt, 85, an aunt of the Menendez brothers and sister to Jose Menendez, suffered a medical emergency and is currently in critical condition at a Los Angeles hospital. The Justice for Erik and Lyle Coalition, a group advocating for their release, attributes her hospitalization to what they describe as a “disturbing and reckless decision” by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office.
“We are devastated to share that Terry Baralt has been hospitalized and is in critical condition following the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office’s cruel and careless conduct in court,” a family statement read. “No physical pain has ever kept her from being there for her nephews. But the display put on by the DA’s office pushed her past the brink.”
Baralt, battling colon cancer, traveled to Los Angeles from New Jersey to offer support during the brothers’ hearing where they are seeking a resentencing. During the proceedings, prosecutors presented graphic crime scene images, including that of Jose Menendez’s body, without warning or preparation for the family.
The family contends this action violated California’s Marsy’s Law, which guarantees victims and their families rights to privacy and dignity within the criminal justice system. “This wasn’t just cruel; it was a clear violation of our rights,” they stated. “We are holding them fully responsible for the profound pain we are suffering right now.”
Key Points Regarding the Hearing:
- Prosecutors displayed graphic crime scene photos, including one of Jose Menendez’s body, without warning the family.
- Terry Baralt, an aunt and sister to Jose Menendez, was hospitalized as a result.
- The family claims this action violated California’s Marsy’s Law.
The Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman’s office acknowledged that the presentation of images may have caused distress but defended their actions, stating they did not intend to cause harm and that the detailed description of evidence is necessary in a legal setting.
“To the extent that the photographic depiction of this conduct upset any of the Menendez family members present in court, we apologize for not giving prior warning that the conduct would be described in detail,” Hochman’s office stated. They also emphasized that the brothers’ ongoing efforts to seek resentencing naturally trigger emotional responses.
During Friday’s hearing, Judge Michael Jesic ruled against withdrawing the petition for a new trial, allowing resentencing proceedings to continue on April 17 and 18.
The Menendez brothers have long maintained their innocence, claiming their father sexually abused them. They are seeking a resentencing after originally being convicted of murdering their parents in 1996. Hochman has indicated he would consider resentencing if the brothers fully admitted their guilt and acknowledged past lies.
The brothers are also scheduled to appear before the state parole board on June 13 as part of a risk assessment ordered by California Governor Gavin Newsom, who is considering their request for clemency. This separate review could potentially lead to their release from prison.
