Erik Menendez Returns Prison Following Kidney Stone Surgery Ahead Parole

Erik Menendez has returned to prison following hospitalization and surgery to treat painful kidney stones, as confirmed by his daughter and multiple sources. The 54-year-old, along with his brother Lyle, is preparing for an upcoming parole hearing scheduled for late August after being resentenced to 50 years to life, making them eligible for parole. The Menendez brothers were convicted in 1989 for the murders of their parents, alleging years of sexual abuse by their father, a claim that was largely barred as evidence during their trials. Recent evidence, including a letter from Erik and testimony from a former Menudo band member, has emerged to support their abuse claims, which a judge deemed potentially impactful on their convictions. Despite discussions of a possible prison furlough by Governor Gavin Newsom due to Erik's medical condition, no furlough was granted, and both brothers remain incarcerated pending their parole hearings. Newsom has expressed sympathy toward granting clemency, though no final decision has been made.