68 - The Menendez Brothers

After more than 30 years behind bars, Erik and Lyle Menendez are scheduled for a resentencing hearing on May 9, 2025, following new allegations that the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office is too conflicted to oversee the case fairly. Their defense team argues that decades of rehabilitation deserve a second chance at freedom.Netflix’s new documentary, MONSTERS, and the resurgence of public fascination with claims of long-term sexual abuse by their father have reignited the debate: Were the Menendez brothers cold-blooded killers... or desperate survivors?Renowned criminal defense attorney Sam Bassett dissects the explosive case of the Menendez brothers — a story of wealth, abuse, and murder that shattered America's perception of family innocence.Dr. Craig Wetterer joins to play devil’s advocate, presenting the prosecution’s side and revealing how trauma, privilege, and courtroom theatrics collided in one of the most notorious trials of the century.Tune in as we explore how childhood trauma reshapes the courtroom — and why the battle for justice is far from over.Connect with Sam on X (formerly Twitter): @SamBassettlaw https://www.mbfc.com/our-attorneys/samuel-bassettChapters00:00 Introduction to the Menendez Case03:07 Legal Mechanisms for Resentencing06:18 The Role of Forensic Psychology in Sentencing09:29 Risk Assessment Protocols12:02 Self-Defense and Abuse Dynamics16:05 Political Implications of the Case21:01 The Emotional Impact of the Case25:37 Learned Helplessness and Domestic Violence30:25 The Evolution of Psychological Mitigation38:51 The Future of Sexual Abuse Conversations43:55 Predictions for the Menendez Brothers' FutureBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.