Menendez Brothers

The Menendez Brothers, Lyle and Erik, are two American men who gained notoriety for murdering their wealthy parents, José and Mary Louise, in 1989. The case attracted widespread media attention because of their privileged background and the controversial trial that followed. They claimed to have acted out of fear and years of alleged abuse by their parents. In 1996, they were convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life imprisonment without parole. The case remains a significant example in legal discussions about family violence, mental health, and the impact of upbringing on criminal behavior.