Podcast Summary: Drop Dead Serious With Ashleigh Banfield

Episode: Menendez Brothers: Why Their Family Still Fights for Their Freedom
Release Date: May 14, 2025
Host: Ashleigh Banfield

Introduction

In this emotionally charged episode of Drop Dead Serious, Ashleigh Banfield delves into the ongoing saga of the Menendez brothers, Eric and Lyle, as their family continues to advocate for their release. With over three decades of experience in true crime reporting, Banfield brings depth and personal connection to the discussion, offering listeners an insider’s perspective on the latest developments in the case.

Recent Developments in the Menendez Case

The episode opens with Banfield announcing a significant judicial decision: the judge has approved the brothers' eligibility for resentencing, determining a sentence of 50 years to life. This decision implies an earlier opportunity for parole, with a scheduled meeting with the parole board on June 13th. Banfield emphasizes the importance of this milestone by stating, “The judge just making a decision that they qualify for resentencing and saying 50 to life” (00:00).

Interview with Anna Maria Barold

A central figure in this episode is Anna Maria Barold, a cousin of Eric and Lyle Menendez. Barold, who testified during the latest court proceedings, provides a heartfelt account of her family's stance on the case. She tearfully explains the complexity of their position, highlighting that while the brothers are victims of their crimes, their release is supported by the family who have also suffered losses. Barold shares, “We are family members of Jose and Kitty, the victims” (00:47), underscoring the nuanced emotions involved.

Understanding the Comprehensive Risk Assessment (CRA)

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the Comprehensive Risk Assessment (CRA), a critical component ordered by Governor Gavin Newsom as part of the clemency process. Barold explains that the CRA is a deep dive into the brothers’ behavior in prison, their rehabilitation efforts, and their potential for reintegration into society. “The CRA as a document is not. It's a one sliver of that process” (02:00), Barold clarifies, emphasizing that it’s part of a broader, more comprehensive evaluation.

Banfield underscores the CRA's importance, stating, “the comprehensive risk assessment is that very, very important deep dive” (02:18). Barold further elaborates on the confidentiality of the CRA, noting that it contains sensitive psychological evaluations and is not typically part of the resentencing process. This confidentiality has led to challenges, as only the legal teams have access to the full document, limiting transparency for family members like herself.

Legal Challenges and Delay Tactics

Barold expresses concerns over potential legal roadblocks posed by the District Attorney’s (DA) office, led by Nathan Hockman. She anticipates “a lot of lawyers arguing” (01:36) and criticizes the DA’s approach as potentially obstructive. Barold mentions, “lawyers arguing is what I'm expecting to happen” (01:36), indicating ongoing legal battles that could delay the process.

She also highlights the DA’s attempts to undermine the brothers' defense by challenging their honesty and the validity of their claims of sexual abuse. Barold asserts, “That is not going to happen because that, he wants them to refute” (12:25), defending the brothers’ integrity and the legitimacy of their experiences.

Impact on the Menendez Family

A poignant moment in the episode is Barold’s recounting of her mother’s traumatic reaction to seeing crime scene photos during a courtroom dinner. Her mother, Terry Barold, was visibly shaken, leading to a hospital visit. “She had never seen them. Even though she had been in the courtroom every day of the original trials” (18:14), Barold explains the deep emotional scars that continue to affect the family decades later.

This incident underscores the lasting impact of trauma, both for the victims’ families and, by extension, proponents of the brothers' release. Banfield poignantly reflects, “30 some odd years later, what trauma can do to you… it can land you in the hospital” (20:31), linking it to the broader narrative of the case.

Criminal Justice Reform and Rehabilitation

The conversation shifts to the broader themes of criminal justice reform and the evolution of societal understanding regarding rehabilitation. Barold advocates for the belief that prisons should focus on rehabilitation rather than mere punishment. “Prisons should be about rehabilitation, not just punishment” (07:50), she states, aligning with Governor Newsom’s stance and the ongoing reform efforts.

Banfield adds historical context, noting significant changes in policies and legal precedents over the years, such as the Supreme Court's rulings against life without parole for juveniles. This evolution in understanding supports the argument for the Menendez brothers' potential for reintegration and societal contribution.

Roy Rosello's Civil Lawsuit

A notable development discussed is the civil lawsuit filed by Roy Rosello, a former member of the band Menudo, alleging sexual assault by Jose Menendez and his manager. Barold expresses hope that Rosello’s bravery in coming forward will influence public opinion and, consequently, the legal proceedings. “He’s been very brave to come forward himself about his story” (15:06), highlighting the increasing willingness of victims to speak out, which could shift perceptions and impact the brothers' case.

Parole Board Hearing and Preparation

Looking ahead, Barold details the extensive preparation that Eric and Lyle are undertaking for their upcoming parole board hearings. She describes their involvement in therapy, educational programs, and other rehabilitative efforts aimed at demonstrating their transformation and readiness to rejoin society. “So they are really doing deep dives into their insight statements” (30:34), Barold explains, emphasizing their commitment to rehabilitation.

Banfield summarizes this phase as “prep mode,” involving rigorous meetings and intensive review of the CRA to ensure that the brothers present themselves as reformed individuals ready to contribute positively to society (31:07).

Family Support and Community Perception

Throughout the episode, Barold and her family articulate unwavering support for Eric and Lyle, highlighting that all living family members advocate for their release. This unified stance is unusual, as typically, victims’ families align with the prosecution. Barold hopes that the visible support from the Menendez family will influence the judge’s decision, asserting, “We want everyone to know how much support Lyle and Eric have” (25:38).

Conclusion

Ashleigh Banfield closes the episode by acknowledging the complex emotions and challenges faced by the Menendez family. She commends Barold for her courage and transparency, offering empathy and support for the family's ongoing struggle. The episode encapsulates the intricate balance between seeking justice for past atrocities and advocating for the possibility of redemption and rehabilitation.

Notable Quotes

• Ashleigh Banfield (00:00): “The judge just making a decision that they qualify for resentencing and saying 50 to life.”

• Anna Maria Barold (01:36): “There's going to be a lot of lawyers arguing is what I'm expecting to happen.”

• Anna Maria Barold (02:00): “The CRA as a document is not. It's a one sliver of that process.”

• Anna Maria Barold (12:25): “That is not going to happen because that, he wants them to refute.”

• Anna Maria Barold (15:06): “He’s been very brave to come forward himself about his story.”

• Ashleigh Banfield (20:31): “30 some odd years later, what trauma can do to you… it can land you in the hospital.”

Note: This summary is based solely on the provided transcript excerpt and may not cover all nuances of the full podcast episode. For a comprehensive understanding, listeners are encouraged to tune into the episode directly.