Los Angeles District Attorney's Office is “exploring all avenues available” to “ensure that justice is served” following the Menendez family's press conference

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office is “committed to a thorough and fair process and will explore all options available to our office to ensure that justice is served,” the organization said in a statement issued in response to a Press conference given by Menendez's family was Wednesday.

The office “has met with the Menendez brothers' family to listen to their concerns and views” and “the Menendez brothers' cases are being reviewed by the office's Resentencing Unit for possible resentencing,” the statement said.

Crucially, the DA's office has “developed a more modern understanding of sexual violence since the Menendez brothers were first prosecuted.” The office added: “We understand the complexity of these situations and the range of emotions involved for the victims and their families.”

The prosecution's full statement can be found below.

“In response to today's press conference from the Menendez brothers' defense attorneys and family members, we would like to take a moment to express our condolences for all of the victims of these tragic incidents,” the statement began.

“We have heard the Menendez family's sincere requests for a review of this case. While we cannot officially comment on decisions at this time, please know that our office is committed to a thorough and fair process and will explore all options available to us to ensure that justice is served . Our legal team met with the Menendez brothers' family to hear their concerns and views. In addition to the habeas petitions processed by the office's Records and Appeals Division and reviewed by the court, the Menendez brothers' cases are reviewed by the office's resentencing division for possible resentencing. While the habeas filing raises questions about the evidence in previous proceedings, the Resentencing Unit focuses on the rehabilitation and conduct of individuals during time served.”

“Prosecutors are still seeking complete documentation of the defense’s allegations. The office is working as quickly as the justice system allows.”

“Our office has developed a more modern understanding of sexual violence since the Menendez brothers were first prosecuted. Today, our office recognizes that sexual violence is a pervasive problem that affects countless people – of all gender identities – and we are committed to supporting all victims as they cope with the profound impact of such trauma.”

“Our Bureau of Victim Services works tirelessly to provide trauma-informed support to those affected by violence and ensure they receive the resources and support they need to heal and regain their lives. We understand the complexity of these situations and the range of emotions involved for the victims and their families.”

“We will provide updates as new information becomes available. Our office remains steadfast in our commitment to justice and supporting victims, recognizing that each case is unique and deserves careful consideration. Thank you for your understanding and compassion as we continue to address this sensitive matter. The next court date is scheduled for November 26th.”

The family of Lyle and Erik Menendez and attorney Mark Geragos held a news conference Wednesday to announce a new coalition and the website JusticeForLyleAndErik.org. The couple's aunt, Joan Vandermolen, called on the public to sign a petition asking Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón to grant the brothers a resentencing.

“Their continued detention serves no rehabilitation purpose. It is time to acknowledge the injustice they have suffered and give them the second chance they deserve,” said her cousin Anamaria Baralt.

“The truth is that Lyle and Erik were failed by the very people who should have protected them: their parents; through the system; by society as a whole. When they stood trial, the whole world was unwilling to believe that boys could be raped or that young men could be victims of sexual violence. Today we know better,” she added.

The media relations department of the LA DA's office issued the following statement to TheWrap on Wednesday: “The scheduled press conference today is being hosted by the Menendez brothers' attorneys and family. The DA's office will not attend the press conference or make any announcements. A decision in the Menendez case has not yet been made. Once Prosecutor Gascón makes a decision, the victims’ family members and the public will be notified.”

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