Hearing Set for Brothers in Menendez Slayings
A preliminary hearing for two brothers charged with killing their wealthy parents in Beverly Hills will be held in late May to allow resolution of a legal battle over tape-recorded evidence.
Municipal Judge Charles Rubin scheduled the hearing for May 24, two days after a Santa Monica judge is to decide whether taped conversations between the defendants and their psychologist can be used at their trial.
Erik Menendez, 19, and his brother, Lyle, 22, answered “Yes, your honor,” when asked Monday if they would waive their right to a speedy hearing.
The two, who appeared in dark business suits, are accused in the shotgun murders of their parents, Jose Menendez, 45, chief executive of Live Entertainment Inc., and his wife, Kitty, 44.
The prosecution claims the young men were motivated by the desire to claim their father’s $14-million fortune for themselves.
--- UNPUBLISHED NOTE ---
Correction
Mary Louise (Kitty) Menendez was 47 when she died, not 44.
--- END NOTE ---
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
