Context:

The Menendez brothers, Lyle and Erik, were resentenced, potentially leading to their release after over three decades in prison, as their case and the 1990s legal culture were revisited. Mark J. Geragos, their lawyer, argued that modern views on justice differ from the punitive approaches of the 1990s, which saw them sentenced to life without parole despite claims of sexual abuse by their father. The first trial ended in a mistrial, but the second trial, influenced by political pressures and media portrayals, resulted in convictions. The changing media landscape and social media campaigns have renewed interest in the case, highlighting claims of injustice. Governor Gavin Newsom is considering clemency after a judge made the brothers eligible for parole, signaling a shift in perceptions about rehabilitation and punishment.

Dive Deeper:

• The Menendez brothers' resentencing highlights the shift from the harsh criminal justice policies of the 1990s, such as the three-strikes laws and long sentences, to a modern emphasis on rehabilitation and second chances.

• Their lawyer, Mark J. Geragos, used the resentencing hearing to critique the punitive mentality of the past, contrasting it with today's evolving views on criminal justice, which see potential for rehabilitation.

• The first trial of the Menendez brothers was heavily televised, contributing to the rise of true-crime interest, but it ended in a mistrial due to the inability of juries to reach a verdict on the brothers' abuse claims.

• The second trial, taking place after the O.J. Simpson acquittal, had stricter rules, influenced by political and public pressures, resulting in murder convictions without the possibility of considering manslaughter.

• Media portrayals in the 1990s, including late-night shows, mocked the brothers and dismissed their abuse claims, but recent social media interest has shifted public perception, prompting a reevaluation of their case.

• A Netflix series and social media campaigns have renewed focus on the brothers, leading to calls for resentencing and highlighting perceived injustices in their trial and sentencing.

• Governor Gavin Newsom's potential role in granting clemency reflects a broader reconsideration of the Menendez case within the context of changing attitudes towards crime, punishment, and media influence.