Erik and Lyle Menendez MIKE NELSON/AFP via Getty Images Erik Menéndez and Lyle Menéndez's murder case has played out in the public for over three decades from two high-profile trials to a life sentence - and a renewed chance at freedom. After their parents, José and Kitty Menéndez, were found dead in 1989, Erik and Lyle became the prime suspects. The brothers were both arrested in 1990 on two counts of first-degree murder. Two subsequent trials resulted in Erik and Lyle's conviction and a life sentence without the possibility of parole.