The parole hearing of Lyle and Erik Menendez has been delayed from June to August, something that has been welcomed by the brothers, their significant others and even the family members who have been actively campaigning for their release.

Lyle Menendez confirmed the news with the following message on his Facebook page:

Taking a break from my break to confirm the news that has been reported today. The guys' parole hearing date has been postponed to August 21/22.
Given the fact that first time parole seekers statistically have a much harder time being granted parole, this gives the guys and their attorneys more time to prepare and gives them the best opportunity to be the exception to the rule! It's a good thing.
Back to my break. 😃 ♥️

Tammi Menendez, Erik Menendez's wife, reported the news on social media with the message: "We are keeping the faith!"

Washington State yoga teacher Anamaria Baralt has been one of the most vocal family members in advocating for the release of the brothers who were convicted in 1989 for the murder of their parents, José and Kitty Menendez. Baralt is a cousin to Lyle and Erik, being the daughter of the brothers' father, Jose's sister, Teresa.

@anamariabaralt

Confirming the new parole dates are August 21 and 22nd. Here we go! #menendezbrothers

♬ original sound - Anamaria Baralt

Baralt has had a very active presence on social media, promoting her yoga classes as well as fiercely championing the brothers' cause. In reaction to the news that Lyle and Erik's first parole hearing had been moved from June 13 to August 21 and 22, Baralt stated on TikTok that "This is not a bad thing. The delay is actually a pretty good thing because they have time to prepare."

Baralt explained that parolees typically prepare for their hearings over a much longer period than the brothers did initially because of their resentencing, so its kind of a blessing in disguise.

Since interest was renewed in the Menendez brothers case due to the Netflix series about the brothers and new evidence being uncovered, Baralt has become a de facto spokesperson for the Menendez family, particularly as new evidence and shifting public opinion have reignited interest in the case. She regularly provides updates on the brothers' case as well as having participated in public events, including a National Press Club forum alongside journalist Robert Rand, to discuss the case and advocate for the brothers.

"Getting granted parole the first time around is a lot more uncommon than common. I think only 19% of inmates in California are granted parole on their first go around, so the more time that they can have to prepare, the better," Baralt added.

In March of this year, Baralt announced the foundation of the Justice for Erik & Lyle coalition, "a family-led initiative advocating for Erik and Lyle Menendez's release." Baralt stated that she had gotten signatures from almost every member of the Menendez family in support of Lyle and Erik's release.

Originally published on Latin Times

Tags
Murder, Trial, Los angeles, California, Netflix, Ryan murphy, Documentary