Erik Menendez Uses Severe Medical Condition as Excuse for Prison Release

Erik Menendez is fighting kidney stones in a California hospital bed, just four weeks before the parole hearing that could end his 35-year imprisonment for murdering his parents.

The 54-year-old was transferred from San Diego's Richard J Donovan prison to an external medical facility last Friday. Officials have stated he remains in fair condition, indicating he is stable but still requires specialised care.

His attorney, Mark Geragos, is now pressing Governor Gavin Newsom for an immediate release, calling it 'the only fair and equitable thing to do' so Erik can adequately prepare for his hearing on 20-21 August.

Erik was transferred from prison to an external medical facility on 18 July 2025 due to a medical condition.

According to the Los Angeles Times, some individuals familiar with the matter claim that the medical condition could be kidney stones or other similar health complications, which require ongoing treatment.

Parent-Killer Wants to Be Released From Prison

Erik Menendez's attorney has actively advocated for a medical furlough, allowing Erik to address his health needs and prepare adequately for the parole hearing.

According to NBC News, attorney Geragos stated that releasing Erik before the hearing is not only justified but also necessary for fairness.

Support from the Menendez family contrasts with opposition from Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, who labels the brothers' claims of self-defence as misleading and continues to oppose their freedom.

Erik was just 18 and Lyle 21 when they shot their parents to death with shotguns.

Erik Menendez Could Be Eligible for Parole

In May 2025, a judge resentenced Erik and Lyle Menendez from life imprisonment without parole to 50 years to life, instantly making them eligible for parole consideration. Their parole hearing is set for late August 2025.

If the parole board approves release, the decision will then be passed to Governor Newsom, who holds final authority on clemency or parole approval.

The hearing will scrutinise their conduct during nearly four decades of imprisonment, their statements of remorse, and the circumstances surrounding the murders.

From Life Sentence to 50 Years

The Menendez brothers were initially sentenced to life without parole for the shotgun murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in August 1989.

After trials in the 1990s ended in convictions, recent interest through documentaries and legal petitions brought renewed attention to their lengthy incarceration.

In May 2025, Judge Michael Jesic resentenced them, acknowledging their youth at the time and the considerable time they had already served.

The ruling posits that their release would not represent an unreasonable risk. However, prosecutors maintain that their motive was financial gain, disputing the brothers' claim of self-defence. This remains a key point of contention as their parole hearing approaches.