Not All Family Members of the Menéndez Brothers Support Their Release: What Uncle Milton Andersen Says

On October 16, 2024, a press conference took place in Los Angeles where several family members of the Menéndez brothers called for the reconsideration of Erik and Lyle Menéndez's sentences. The brothers are currently serving life sentences for the 1989 murder of their parents.

With national and international media attention focused on the event, the family emphasized that the judicial system failed to understand the context of the brothers' suffering.

During the conference, discussions centered around the alleged abuse Erik and Lyle endured, with family members expressing their unwavering support in hopes that new evidence could influence the case. This renewed interest is partly attributed to a recent series and documentary about the Menéndez brothers available on Netflix, which has brought their story back into the spotlight.

However, not all family members are supportive.

A notable absence at the conference was Milton Andersen, 90, Kitty Menéndez's brother, who firmly opposes the possibility of the brothers being granted freedom. His stance highlights the familial divisions surrounding this controversial case. While some advocate for a new trial based on allegations of abuse, Milton believes Erik and Lyle should face the consequences of their actions.

In a statement, Milton expressed his conviction that the brothers must remain in prison. His attorney, Kathy Cady, criticized District Attorney George Gascón for not keeping Milton informed about the developments in the case.

"The lack of clarity and transparency leaves Mr. Andersen in the dark. He shouldn't have to learn about his sister's murder case through a magazine or a press conference," Cady stated.

"Mr. Andersen believes the reason his nephews murdered Kitty and her husband was out of greed," Kathy Cady added, mentioning that the brothers had discovered their father, José, planned to remove them from his will.

"He prefers that the Menéndez brothers stay in prison because he believes that is what justice demands," Cady continued.

"I never thought this day would come," said Joan Andersen VanderMolen, Kitty Menéndez's sister, who has been a pillar of support for the brothers for over 30 years. Joan highlighted that as details of the abuse emerged, it became evident that Erik and Lyle's actions were a desperate response to their father's cruelty.

As the debate surrounding the case continues, it is clear that personal stories and the impact of abuse are fundamental elements in the Menéndez narrative.

Reactions to the press conference reflect a deep desire for justice and understanding, as well as the struggle to heal old family wounds amid a controversy that remains present in public opinion.