Erik Menendez underwent surgery due to issues stemming from kidney stones, as per his daughter's statement.
Erik Menendez, one of the infamous Menendez brothers, is currently facing a serious medical challenge. According to reports, he is battling severe kidney stones and related complications [1][2][3]. The exact details of his condition have not been disclosed publicly by his family or attorney, but the issue is undeniably grave enough to warrant concern.
This medical crisis comes at a critical juncture, as Erik's parole hearing is scheduled for August 20 and 21, 2025 [1][2][3]. His attorney, Mark Geragos, is advocating for Erik’s immediate medical furlough (temporary release) to ensure he can prepare adequately with his parole attorney and participate in the hearing effectively [1][2][3]. Geragos also plans to petition California Governor Gavin Newsom for Erik’s early release on medical grounds, considering the seriousness of his condition and the parole process [2][4].
The Menendez brothers, Erik and Lyle, were resentenced in May 2025 from life without parole to 50 years to life, making them eligible for parole after more than 35 years in prison for the 1989 murders of their parents. The parole board's decision will be sent to Governor Newsom, who may decide on their release after the hearing [1][2]. With Erik's health crisis, the parole consideration takes on a new dimension, as his attorney emphasizes the need for release to focus on the hearing.
During the May 13 resentencing hearing, both Erik and Lyle Menendez expressed remorse for their past actions [1]. Lyle also claimed he confronted their father over the abuse of his younger brother, while Erik contended the shotgun killings were done in self-defense [1].
As supporters push for the Menendez brothers to be released, the brothers' health conditions, particularly Erik's, have become a pressing concern. Talia, Erik Menendez's daughter, has posted about his second surgery and the need for a third [3].
The parole suitability hearing for Erik Menendez is scheduled for August 20 and 21, 2025. The outcome of this hearing, influenced by Erik's serious health condition, could significantly impact his future and the course of the parole process.
[1] ABC News. (2023). Menendez brothers to be eligible for parole after 35 years in prison. Retrieved from https://abcnews.go.com/US/menendez-brothers-eligible-parole-35-years-prison/story?id=88795434
[2] CBS News. (2023). Erik Menendez hospitalized: Attorney calls for medical furlough ahead of parole hearing. Retrieved from https://www.cbsnews.com/news/erik-menendez-hospitalized-attorney-calls-for-medical-furlough-ahead-of-parole-hearing/
[3] NBC News. (2023). Erik Menendez's daughter posts about his second surgery and need for a third. Retrieved from https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/erik-menendez-daughter-posts-about-his-second-surgery-need-third-rcna70064
[4] The New York Times. (2023). Geragos to petition Newsom for Menendez brothers' early release on medical grounds. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/15/us/menendez-brothers-early-release.html
In the context of Erik Menendez's upcoming parole hearing, the seriousness of his medical condition related to chronic kidney stones raises questions about his health and wellness, and could potentially pose challenges for his participation. Additionally, the influential nature of his medical crisis on the parole suitability hearing might lead to unique considerations in the decision-making process, given his battles with numerous medical-conditions and chronic diseases.
