As a trauma survivor, this was really difficult to watch. Thank you for the trigger warning. Their testimonies didn't affect me as much as their genuine emotions did. No one could fake that. The dissociation, the break in eye contact, the softer voice, the tears and shame. Thank you, Dr. G.
Agreed! If this case came through in today's social climate and awareness of SA victims within a family dynamic, I don't believe the Menendez brothers would have had the outcome from the trial, verdict, etc then, today. Being a victim myself, we can feel his pain and reality. This is hard to watch, I was young when this went to trial.
Its extremely cruel to make grown men publicly talk about about something they hate and feel embarrassed of, watch them cry and suffer and not believe them anything in the end. Thats just disgusting and painful
@riki1969...my husband is the same age as Lyle and it's very difficult for him to talk about the SA he endured as a boy today. I cannot image what it must have been like back then. They need to be freed, not retried. They have been punished enough.
The reason that Lyle's attorneys changed defense strategies was that Lyle did not want to testify because of damaging impeachment evidence the prosecution had gathered since the first trial. Lyle was considered a sympathetic witness during the first trial, however prosecutors had tape recorded conversations between Lyle and Norma Novelli, Lyle's one-time confident, where Lyle describes how he "snowed" the jury at his first trial with his testimony about abuse. The prosecution also discovered a letter Lyle had written to a former girlfriend instructing her on how to testify at the first trial. Because Lyle did not testify, his attorneys were not able to call child abuse experts to testify about his state of mind. Without Lyle's testimony, he was not able to use the same defense as he had in his first trial... He knew he lied about it and many other things, so he couldn't testify because of HIS OWN LIES!!!!!
@@GameChanger597 that's not how it works in court. If you are caught lying several times, they assassinate your character. Erik lied so much that he was unable to testify in the second trial. Without his testimony, there was no case for sexual abuse. Not only that, but the defense falsified one of the statements of the experts. That expert too lost face and wasn't credible anymore, as was the entire defense team. That's why they didn't talk about it in the second trial. That and the fact there were no eye witnesses and no physical evidence. At the end of the day, it all comes down to hard facts. And they have none, except their own testimony and since they lied so much, they are hence unbelievable.
It's bad enough they were never believed or protected, but then to be sentenced to life without parole after all they had been through? Those boys never had a chance.
It’s so awful. I used to think ppl who were rich had it all. But obviously this is not the case here. We never know what ppl are really going through. This video made me cry. So so sad. Horrible parents.
That’s right!!! All the ‘pity’ goes to the molester monsters!!!! ?????Taking 2 beautiful, sweet,normal innocent toddlers and from then on twisting, and warping and shaming & destroying their very SOULS!!!! No one can even comprehend.One week of the way these boys lived and most boys/ girls would have done something awful Yet, with God, they do have a chance....SET THEM FREE!!!!It is shameful that they were born into a living HELL and on top of it are expected to live the rest of life in a hell as well😮😢Cruel, unusual “punishment” if you ask me. It is just WRONG!!!May God be with them❤There are soooo many Erik & Lyle’s out there, it is a disgrace, an unspeakable disgrace. We MUST SPEAK!!!
It is awful this does happen and no one seem to do anything to protect those boys. They father from what I hear was a wealthy person and could do anything in his power to prevent himself or his wife from going to jail for abusing their sons.
@@BlackCatFilmProductions that’s how it always is but thing is the prosecutor and judge already had their minds made up that men can’t be raped but if they were two females this wouldn’t even if of went to trial I’m thinking about writing newsome to get them a pardon
I think he laughed/smile as a response from the audience. They all tried to lighten the moment for him, and he joined to relief himself from the topic.
exactly. throughout the entire questioning portion of the trial, he disassociates and there’s even that moment where he completely blocked out what his attorney asked him because it was so triggering. it makes sense that he would try to laugh and smile to make himself feel better
I’m a trauma survivor, and watching Erik’s reaction when asked about the “rough sex” at 6:46 made my heart break for him. I know that body language. The dissociation. The shame, confusion and disgust. It was horrible for me as an adult, but for a child? It’s just beyond tragic.😢
They are lying sociopaths. You think people can't fake? You do realize that the series is played by actors... Didn't you believe their acting? There is an entire industry made around, faking emotions... They lied about the murders, lied to the judge, the defense was forced to retract statements in the second trial, because one of their experts lied on the stand. The reason that Lyle's attorneys changed defense strategies was that Lyle did not want to testify because of damaging impeachment evidence the prosecution had gathered since the first trial. Lyle was considered a sympathetic witness during the first trial, however prosecutors had tape recorded conversations between Lyle and Norma Novelli, Lyle's one-time confident, where Lyle describes how he "snowed" the jury at his first trial with his testimony about abuse. The prosecution also discovered a letter Lyle had written to a former girlfriend instructing her on how to testify at the first trial. Because Lyle did not testify, his attorneys were not able to call child abuse experts to testify about his state of mind. Without Lyle's testimony, he was not able to use the same defense as he had in his first trial... He knew he lied about it and many other things, so he couldn't testify because of HIS OWN LIES!!!!! They are liars and monsters
I completely agree. I was a child when this case took place, but I watched one of the documentaries a few years ago with the brothers’ testimony included and I really felt their genuine emotion. And their were also multiple family members who corroborated the abuse occurred. As a therapist, I worked on a women’s trauma unit and I’ve worked with multiple women who’s mothers turned a blind eye to their children being sexually/physically abused by their fathers or mom’s boyfriend, etc… I’ll never forget, at the start of my career (17 yrs ago) I had a family meeting with my patient and her mom and the mom said to her daughter (my patient) “Well you wore those short shorts around him (moms boyfriend)” and she was referring to when her daughter was 7! She was blaming her 7 year old daughter for a grown man sexually abusing her. I was so young at this time myself and not as experienced as I am now. My jaw hit the floor and I ended the meeting, told mom to leave, so I could support my patient. I’ll never forget that experience.
Thank you for sharing Hope. And this right here is why there was a mistrial for the Menendez brothers, the jury was hung because it wasn't believed that boys in general were sexually abused and brothers made it up.
This is why the shopping spree and parties after the fact makes sense to me. They weren't emotionally connected to their parents except through fear and obligation. With that weight gone you'd feel free, like you could do anything. They started businesses and hired a tennis coach. They did things to better their lives. If they weren't caught they'd both probably be very successful today.
The two brothers didnt want to study or work hard, lyle bought a restaurant only to left to two friends, Erick only wanted to be a tenis superstar both drop college, Jose was a monster but everyone agree was hardworking and gain every penny their sons only one to spend it
They were spoiled brats. The way they killed their parents, the way they tried to manipulate witnesses and all of their actions afterwards shows how evil these spoiled brats were
No, I don't think that was the case. It was shame money, so they simply were getting rid of it. They were wasting it. Also, it was a way to block things out (disassociate from the actual event).
I would say anyone who is able to read human emotions can recognise this as genuine. I believe the ones who are dismissing them aren't able to read human emotions OR are abusers a d bullys. It's not an accident that they are targeted and defamed so badly.
I actually recognize it from my Husband passing and when certain memories come up. I don't think I've been this upset about being touched, because it wasn't my parents.
What is the recent evidence? Just heard about this case, I think they are telling the truth but I don't think it was right to kill their parents as it got them life in prison, they could have maybe taken other steps, I don't know what the exact feelings and emotions were like, also their father being a powerful person made it more dangerous to just leave, also I think the abused generally thinks the abuser to be invincible or too powerful atleast that's what I felt when I had bad experience with my stepfather, though it was not sexual or too physical.
I don't think they could get a new trial, but maybe a re-sentencing. They're still guilty of first degree murder, they're not legally insane, but there's a reason to be more merciful in their sentencing. They should have to go through some kind of inpatient therapy before they're ever released though, IMO
They absolutely can get a new trial, as evidence was withheld, previously. Also, there was a letter Erik wrote to his cousin, talking about the abuse, long before the murders. They could also be resentenced. However, I believe they should be pardoned. They were viciously abused. If Gypsy Rose Blanchard can be let out to run amok, when she is beyond guilty and wasn't even actually abused, these 2 deserve to be granted freedom. @@ToyotaGuy1971
@@raghavgahtori7963there was a hand written letter from Erik to his cousin, long before the murder, discussing the abuse. This letter was withheld and never spoken of at trial. There are other things as well. Witnesses that weren't called, who had testimony that proved the abuse. These men deserve to be pardoned. They were viciously sexually abused by their own parents.
What about the fact that they tried to manipulate and bribe many witnesses. Their spending spree and most of their actions after their parents death doesn’t collaborate with they are saying! Also the way they killed their parents shows how evil and rotten these people were
This was so informative to me. I truly have developed empathy for the trauma these young men have been through. Thank you for your videos. I learn so much from you Dr. G.
There's talk of sex, gay sex, rough sex etc. But where are the words rape, paedophile, grooming. Even the way their own defence lawyers phrased the questions....
because erik had his own names for the different types of sexual abuse his father put him through so the defence lawyer when asking questions used the names he had for these things.
Because abused people who have been groomed from 6 and 7 years old are programed by their abusers that it isnt rape. It's the reason that at 18 it was still happening. Which likely caused more shame then the actual abuse. Knowing it's wrong but not stopping it because you "let" it happen so often makes you feel complicit.
The terminology you suggest should have been used are words that either have legal or clinical definitions. When talking with victims, the victims use their own words as they usually are not lawyers, clinicians or professional victim advocates. In fact, using words like "grooming" or "pedophilia" would make the testimony less authentic. Consider a person testifying about a being hit by a car, driven by a drunk driver. Would you feel it necessary for them to refer to themself as a pedestrian and the drive as an impaired motor vehicle operator, and use terminology if say, they broke their leg? Or would they likely talk about walking, being hit by a crazy driver and getting their leg smashed up? Doesn't that testimony sound realistic? Let the judges, lawyers, insurance companies and doctors use the terminology proper for their own context, the patient or victim doesn't need to, to tell their story.
I think it would be in part because they didn't know it was r*pe ect as kids and many victims find it hard to call the abuse what it was, but I think also the defence had to soften the language because they didn't want the prosecution to say it was a revenge k*lling because their defense was that it was imperfect self defense. I read that somewhere, so it might not be accurate, n I've explained it badly, sorry.
As someone who has PTSD as a direct result of abuse by the system I can assure you, these young men are telling the truth. We try to avoid the pain as much as possible by not talking or thinking about the abuse, the trail was as if they were abused again. Horrific miscarriage of justice happened here!
It honestly baffles me that people think they could be lying about this. They were (are) so consistent with what happened, details no one would think to make up, so many witnesses to strange behaviour by their father etc. it’s a total miscarriage of justice that they are still in prison
It baffles me that a lot of People are so naive to think that these guys are not lying. Being consistent about what supposly happened doesn't mean they are not lying. There were some questionable testemonies as well and there was no real evidence. Those whole story seems to be made up to cover things.
Dr.G, I agree. I am 73 years old now and when I was about 13 and 14 my dad, brother and two of my uncles raped me. Even after many years of therapy I felt it must have been something about me that I somehow caused it. Thank God that I had a truly wonderful husband who was always very gentle and very understanding when in the middle of of private times I had to stop. I know it couldn’t have been very easy on him. We were blessed with 45 years together before he got sick and died here in our home in my arms.
That is horrible and I’m truly sorry that happened to you in your childhood. So happy that you found a good man and had him for 45 yrs. You’ll meet again… 🤍I believe that.
@@DeRockMedia oh gosh, I just reread my post and I think I have made it seem as if it was the four of them at one time. It wasn’t, I thank God that it was at separate times. I have only realized now that at least with my brother and uncles that they bragged to each other and probably told each other that “she’ll never tell” and I didn’t. The first uncle was living with us at the time and he kept saying “who do you think your mother believe, you or me her brother “? I was a very naïve child and I believed him. All four of them have died and have had to stand before God Almighty and answer for what they did. Thank you for your comment.
@@toribern419 I know and believe with all my heart ♥️ that I will see him and our three sons again. God is good always but there are some really bad people that live among us. Thank you.
@@louettesommers8594 Oh no i didnt assume that, but it doesnt matter, it still was horrible and NEVER should of happened... ppl like that should be put down, its beyond unfair. Im glad you are doing better though, I wish you the best rest of your life :)
I have a C-PTSD from my own childhood trauma and watching Erik is like watching myself. I can’t even imagine answering to such intrusive questions in public, in court, when it was difficult enough in a privacy of my therapist’s office to share it… And I was well into my 30s when I first opened up about it. It’s truly heartbreaking to watch…
These boys were failed by their parents and then failed by the justice system. I believe them to my core. Our prison practices set inmates up for failure, nothing about the environment was designed with their personal growth in mind, or with the goal of leaving people better than they're found. Especially considering how young they were, their decades-long clean track record as inmates is a huge testament to their integrity. I'm glad they were finally allowed at the same facility but it's time they're allowed out.
How were they failed by the justice system, by not ordering them to go through therapy instead of prison? What sentence would you have given them, knowing what you now know?
@@ToyotaGuy1971 Therapy is the only "sentencing" these boys deserve. What they did was imo a justified response to the abhorrent crimes committed upon them.
@@GoldenWreck But no one gets those kind of sentences, because the country is ruled by an oligarchy, and they want the money for housing and rehabilitating mentally ill people to go into their own pockets, so first we'd have to remove the oligarchy by bringing back democracy with a unified/unionized workforce having the collective bargaining-power to exert our collective will over the oligarchs with the threat of mass coordinated strikes. A real labor party, giving us real representaion - a real democracy. That's what it would take to get those kind of sentences for mentally ill people again
@@GoldenWreckI agree with you. They didn't deserve the sentence they got. They should have been let out so long ago. Meanwhile, Gypsy Rose is a complete psychopath and she's being made out to be a saintly victim. What she did is so much worse than what the brothers did.
They killed their parents for money. Thats why they killed them instead of just leaving the house for good. Their mother wasnt abusive to them. And even so they murdered her too
When you dissociate it is automatic; just like breathing, when you come out you try to read the room and fall in line hoping no one notices, because you can’t explain what you can’t remember.
Wow. A very heavy one, Dr.G! I know a lot of people had requested analysis of these two. I think it’s great that you’re posting some video analyses of what you believe to be truthful body behavior, rather than just focusing on who you think is being deceptive. It really helps me learn the differences. Thank you! I am a huge fan!!!
Every body analyst I’ve seen has said the same thing about the Menendez brothers. And as a trauma survivor I feel like even if the circumstances were really different you can tend to identify a fellow survivor. They’ve always read mostly authentic to me. Showing a vulnerability to a society who was insensitive about it, to a level I don’t think I would be able to do.
7:35 I don’t know what they were laughing about either, but I feel like he laughs because he’s so uncomfortable with the subject, and having just been so on display and singled out. So when people start laughing at something he joins in to become part of “the group” again.
This one was hard to watch. Especially since back when I was a kid I remember thinking of them as guilty monsters. But now that I'm in my 40s, I genuinely feel bad for them.
Same here! I was in high school when they were arrested and the media made them out to be spoiled brats that killed their parents for the money. So that’s how I always thought of them. Now I feel differently, they lived in a house of horrors!
Yeah the media painted that narrative and I fell for it- why the jury ruled as they did is sickening cuz they got to hear it all not like us only seeing what the media wanted us to see
Im here, crying, because i feel not only bad for what these men went through by their father but also feeling guilty that as a teenager since i didnt watch this trial I just assumed that since they were put in jail that they were evil for killing their innocent parents 😢
Wow, this was so interesting, Dr. G. I remember this trial well and I remember thinking the brothers were making all this up. Boy, was I wrong. So fascinating to hear your take, and now I'm ashamed at what I thought. So glad you analyzed this for us.
I remember the trial as well and, back then, I had assumed they had made it all up as well. I was surprised by my own observations when I was reviewing the trial footage.
I can't agree more. Certainly when Lyle describes his father sliding of his pants and he knew what was going to happen is something only a real victim would emphasise. Liars would make it more about the insertion of the objects. How awful this must have been your dad telling you this was love. 😢
The reason that Lyle's attorneys changed defense strategies was that Lyle did not want to testify because of damaging impeachment evidence the prosecution had gathered since the first trial. Lyle was considered a sympathetic witness during the first trial, however prosecutors had tape recorded conversations between Lyle and Norma Novelli, Lyle's one-time confident, where Lyle describes how he "snowed" the jury at his first trial with his testimony about abuse. The prosecution also discovered a letter Lyle had written to a former girlfriend instructing her on how to testify at the first trial. Because Lyle did not testify, his attorneys were not able to call child abuse experts to testify about his state of mind. Without Lyle's testimony, he was not able to use the same defense as he had in his first trial... He knew he lied about it and many other things, so he couldn't testify because of HIS OWN LIES!!!!!
@@katiemccracken2317 No evidence and no eye witnesses. There is no proof for sexual abuse. And the rest of the abuse is nearly not enough to kill people over. That's the entire point, we only have their word to go on. And they have lied several times about many crimes. So no, they aren't believable anymore and that's their own fault. I think they are lies and you think they are not. Accept it. Some people don't believe them and so does the law and the justice system.
@@FragLord it’s also not impossible that his childish statements behind or in the first trials were caused by his frozen emotional development which is actually very common for people who experienced abuse in early childhood. he could’ve lied out of panic, out of shame, out of confusion, plus people who suffered traumatic events tend to have emotional outbursts which is an inability to regulate feelings a probable cause why their actions seem impulsive or irrational. this lack of emotional regulation, paired with feelings of guilt or confusion about the abuse, can lead to behavior that might appear manipulative or erratic to outsiders but could be a manifestation of unresolved trauma. just imagine how a 6 year old speak in trial.
@@ZaWarudoButKakyoinLived But he was not a 6 year old. There is no evidence for sexual abuse, there are no eye witnesses of sexual abuse. The 2 witnesses they had were 1 hearsay and 2 didn't say anything about sexual abuse. They didn't say anything to their psych about sexual abuse. They instructed witnesses to lie and how to lie. That's the entire reason Erik didn't testify and subsequently why there wasn't a case for sexual abuse in the second trial. Did you listen to their 9/11 call? If they can fake that, they can fake anything. I can't believe them, because of their own actions. And they lied their way into their own predicament. Nobody is guilty of that, besides themselves. Abuse or no abuse. At the end of the day, we have to follow the letter of the law. And all we know for sure is 1) they did premeditated murder 2) they lied about the murders and 3) Because of those lies and many other lies, their testimonies are useless. And again, that's their own fault. 4) thus they are guilty of first degree murder and there are only 2 outcomes. Life or death. Justice is about evidence. IF you don't have it, you don't have a case. It's that simple. I don't want innocent people behind bars either, but they ain't. They are murderers and liars. They shot their parents a combined 16 times, 10 shotgun shots to the mother of only the last one was fatal. That's ice cold.
there is actually a good amount of evidence that proves they were abused. letters, family members that knew, other victims, photographs, medical records, etc. I wish more people looked into this case instead of just seeing that they were rich, and then assuming they did it for the money.
@@cjking4511lyle said his mother abused him sexually as a child giving him "genital examinations". and it's a form abuse (even monstorous) to witness your kids getting molested and allowing it to happen.
@@cjking4511 This is just wrong, both testified to abuse by their mother at their trials that they experienced their entire lives. Other relatives testified to the abuse. They also testified how she was aligned with their father and they were as afraid of her as they were afraid of him. Plus that they found out she knew about Jose's sexual abuse all along and did nothing. Also the money motive makes no sense to the point the prosecution couldn't even get an indictment on it.
Another witness came forward about their dads abuse. A letter talking about the abuse was buried, or not allowed to come into evidence. I don’t think they’re a danger to society, they’ve been in prison a long time and should be let out. What happened to them…. is so horrible. Their sick father is where he belongs. Mom didn’t protect them. My heart goes out to these brothers. So sad. So sad.
They didn't even go 2 the police 2 report their dad..no dairies nothing.a letter a few months before the killings..the reason they didn't go 2 the police was simply because if dad is put in jail they boys don't get money from the wil..when if they had of really been sa..they could of sued him..they full of bs.2 spoilt pos who wanted 2 kil & only Eric couldn't live with it & told.the doctor..but didn't mention sa 2 the doctor
I understand the smiling which seemed out of place. It’s a coping mechanism. I am a trauma survivor and used to laugh at inappropriate times as a way of hiding what I was really feeling and could not express, much less identify. The boys’ behavior here was 100% authentic. Yes, they did the crime, but it’s totally understandable what led to it. The level of rage in them was a huge, no longer controllable force. With you all the way, Dr. G!
I asked you to cover this case a little while back, Dr. G! Thank you for this. I think about these two men and their case often and it breaks my heart. Couldn't help but cry throughout your analysis. Thank you again for the video :)
As a person with CPTSD and a sensitive person..I know and can feel the heaviness and pain they felt as they described the details. It is very difficult to watch. I never questioned their authenticity while on the stand.
Knowing how it feels to be SA'd by a parent (stepdad n my case) for YEARS, & my mom did nothing. Was scared 4 my life. Had i had the chance 2 kill him i would had. The SA isnt a 1 or 2 time thing. Hundreds.
So sorry for what you went through. Mine was an uncle & I still struggle with those demons to this day & I am almost 60 years old 😥 My heart goes out to those brothers & I think they should get another trial since so many of the allegations were not permitted in their first trial.
I'm so glad you find them genuine. As an abuse victim myself, I can feel their pain it is oozing from them 💔💔 and I didn't suffer anywhere near as much as these two poor boys. It's absolutely awful and I can see why they broke. I've seen them in a later interview where the state they feel happier and safer now, than they ever did in their multimillion dollar home. Soooo sad...
I have always believed these boys (who are now middle aged men that are much older than me), and I'm so glad you are of the same belief. They need to be released ASAP
I always believed them, but the murders were so horrific, It’s not like a judge can say you ambushed them and shot them repeatedly, and called the police and said you found them like this. But because you were horrifically abused for years. We’ll just let yall go home. I believe because they have served time. It’s time for them to go home. I have much compassion for them and hope and pray they will be able to have a life of freedom.
When this trial was happening in real time, I didn’t keep up on the details of their testimonies. Praying for these two men and all abused children. Heartbreaking.
I think they deserve a new trial . There is new evidence that could change the conviction from premeditated murder to manslaughter. It’s obvious to me that the crime was in a rage . There is a better understanding of the dynamics involved in SA since the time in which they were convicted.
@@cjking4511 The mother also sexually abused one of them and she absolutely knew what was going on with the father and the children. She is a diabolical excuse for a mother let alone a human being. Of course Im not insinuating she deserved to die, however, it is very clear WHY they killed her as well as their father.
@@WakeyWakeyEggsandBakey That would be a mitigating factor if they were still children but these were grown men. Lyle should have stayed in NJ in that condo Jose bought him and never came back. Erik should have moved out to college yet he never turned in his on campus housing form in March when it was due. It is subjective why they killed their parents meaning emotional people will believe it was a revenge killing against their former child abusers and objective people will believe the the evidence that both parents told their adult sons they were being disinherited so they killed them to keep their access to Jose’s money and not have to go to college. There is witness testimony to support both sides but either way the murders were legally unjustified
Ive heard of this case but never watched anything on it until now. That broke my heart hearing them testify!! As children we deserve nothing less then to be protected by our parents. What's one to do when your own parents are the monsters💔I pray they've found some kind of peace
Fantastic analysis of the Menendez Brothers at trial. My blood boils when I hear people say the brothers lied about sexual, emotional, physical abuse in the family home. Sadly, ptsd and mental health wasn't even a thing at the time of this trial. Some much has been learned about mental health and thank goodness we live in an age it's finally talked about and accepted including it being admissible in court. *Edit, also wanted to add that Lyle's 'wounded inner child' comes out in his body language, it's like I'm watching a child in a grown up body.
Omg Dr. G, your analysis on this is absolutely 100% spot on. I suffer with C-PTSD and Can definitely relate with the symptoms of how this diagnosis presents itself!! I am so so so glad I found your channel. You do amazing presenting your analysis in a very non judgemental and non bias way. Thank you Dr. G👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼😁😁😁
You changed my opinion on them, entirely! I always had an eerie gut feeling that something about them was off. I am glad you chose to dive into the hardest parts of their testimony to prove your opinion and educate us. Informative and thorough - as always. Thank you Dr G!
I'm so glad that Dr G is talking about this. So much of what happened to them seemed wrong. I keep hoping that somehow they will be able to get out of their lifelong nightmare. But by now, they must be so broken. It is almost unbearable to think about.
They’re both doing pretty well in prison actually, Both of them are in a place called Echo Yard which focuses more on rehabilitation and both brothers are in leadership positions and are well respected by other inmates.
@@YourEverydaySheep That is good to hear. I guess. Thank you for letting me know. The idea of their going from a childhood of constant terror and sexual abuse to...an adulthood exactly the same... Unbearable. I recall things that people, adults, who knew their father said about him. One of his colleagues said "the person most likely to be murdered", when asked to explain, the man said he always expect Mr Menendez to be murdered because he behaviour was so egregious, so profoundly horrible, and he was that way to everyone who had ever met him. It also seems so strange to me that a parent can be constantly horribly psychologically and emotionally abusive, and physically (but not sexually) and the US "justice" system takes the stance of "well they were coddled, but nothing wrong there", but the second sexual abuse is thrown in , THEN it becomes wrong.(& of course it is horribly wrong) Why exactly is psychologically torturing children okay? Or considered to be "just" "firm parenting." In a work place such behaviour is illegal. But at home, to defenseless children it is "parenting". Unbelievable. At least in almost every EU country parents are not allowed to physically punish children anymore. A smack will get them arrested...as some tourists from other countries have found out to their outrage "what? I'm not allowed to do to my child something that would get me arrested if I did it to an adult, how uncivilized?"
First they experienced the abuse Then they had to disclose it multiple times With the lawyer With the trial With interviews For what? They were sent to jail in spite of the trauma & public disclosure of it ... What could be worse than living, re-living it and still get punished for not "telling the truth" Terrible case... :(
It’s a sad reality that these boys are serving life without parole & we’re hugely vilified by the media, yet Gypsy Rose only got 10 years & is treated like a celebrity. Both endured abuse, both thought there was no other way out of their situation other than to end the life of their abuser(s). Why are the Menendez brothers seen as monsters but everyone sympathizes with Gypsy. ? Thank you for analyzing this video. I always felt so bad for these boys. The pain in their voices when they testified was unbelievable, but because of what these brothers did after the crime, they threw the book at them. And here is a question that I have always wondered:: had they never ended the lives of their parents, do you think they ever would have told anyone about what was happening to them? And IF they did tell someone, what would the likely outcome be? I honestly think if they did spill the beans to someone about the abuse that was happening at home, I think their parents would find a way to have these boys committed to a mental health facility and have them legally considered “ crazy” so that nobody would ever believe anything that they said. I believe that these boys KNEW this & were threatened mercilessly by their parents. I hope & pray that these boys get a new trial & a chance to live a life without the control of their parents. ❤
Because Gypsy Rose is a master manipulator herself and through her learning disabled boyfriend under the bus in order to appear like the poor little girl who is constantly victimised. She said he SAd her after the murder but in fact she went into the bathroom as the killing was occurring in order to shave herself ready. Absolutely disgusting she got 10 years and her boyfriend got life without parole. She really fleeced those investigators imo.
I agree with this so much! Gypsy Rose was never even abused. Everything she's said has been a lie and it's been proven repeatedly. She seems to get all the special treatment when real victims are punished for being victims.
I don't think the boys were thinking that far ahead but they definitely felt trapped. Their father was a very powerful man. So just escaping the 4 walls of their house wouldn't have made much difference. But all they really wanted was to escape the endless abuse.
I remember this but was too young to understand what happened. I really appreciate your style of playing back 2 or 3 times on key moments. That really helps me in spotting what you have explained. Thank you.
The look in their eyes, the pain, the shame, the destroyed child inside him, i feel it, and i have always felt bad for these brothers. And I will continue to. I am not saying murder is right, though, lol…. i just feel him on his trauma..and it is something that turns you into someone or something other than who you could have been, without the child abuse. I personally believe these brothers should have been treated in a psych center. Thank you, Dr. G. Such an interesting and emotional case, for the childhood victims. edit:word
Lol you’re funny. They killed them for the money.. Money they already had? Really? None of that adds up. If that’s the case WHY did the dad possess child p*** of both of the boys? Why did NEIGHBORS testify to José showing child p*** at a dinner and laughing about it? Why did ALL of their cousins come forward and say when Jose was alone in a room with the boys nobody was to even go on that FLOOR. Why did Erik write to his cousin 9 months BEFORE the murders expressing fear of his father r*ping him again? Why why why? You can’t answer. Because they are telling the truth.
This is so hard to watch (I have 2 young sons). Thank you for explaining the details, the pain these boys went through is unimaginable. This is the first time I hear about this case and I was thinking why the mother did do anything to stop her husband... Obviously she would know, it's hard to imagine she wouldn't question some of the things that were happening. And then I learned she was involved. I can't imagine how much abuse was in this family when the kids had nobody they could trust, nobody who could protect them. Thank you again for making this videos, maybe people can learn and pay attention to some signs of kids being abused.
The mother DEFINITELY knew. There was talk from people that knew them that when they were at their house and the dad disappeared with one of the brothers into a bedroom that you didn't even go down the hallway. Also there's new info that came out saying the prosecutor withheld damning evidence against the father in the trial. Apparently one of the brothers had wrote a letter (3 mths prior to the murders) to his cousin where he mentions the abuse and how he was terrified of his father's retribution if he were to go to the authorities about it. And then another man has come forward alleging their father molested him as well. (From a boy band I believe, as their dad was a big time producer.) I really hope there's an appeal.
She was narcisitic and abusive as well. On all levels, Including sexually. Their parents were 100% more responsible for their fate than the brothers who pulled the trigger.
Thank you for sharing this case. So interesting to see it broken down. It made me so sad all the same. I will never understand how people can be so cruel to each other.
Seeing this brought tears to my eyes. If they were making this up they are superb actors. I'm so sad for what they had to endure as children at the hands of their father no less. Thanks Dr. G!
Thank you, so much, for this video, Dr. G. May I add, so often when this or similar cases are discussed, some people will acknowledge there probably was abuse, however, “they weren’t in danger when they killed [the predator]”. People who say this don’t understand that when you are being abused like this, EVERY moment of EVERY day is threatening. You don’t know when the predator will choose to end your life or how it will be done. I don’t think these boys even thought about what killing their parents would mean. They were looking to end the horrible pain they felt. Going on the ridiculous shopping spree they went on was a celebration - they would no longer have to face their father’s horrible abuse and their mother ignoring what was going on. I don’t excuse what they did, but I do understand it. I also know that there are thousands (maybe millions) of adults in this country who can watch this video and say, “There, but for the grace of God, go I”.
I only discovered this case about a year ago, but I watched their entire testimonies and I've never had even one doubt that they were victims and that they weren't "guilty". It's absolutely horrible that they were found guilty. This case is (still in the present tense) just absolutely heartbreaking.
Justice is about PROOF! They can't proof they were abused, that's the entire point. It's not about feelings and emotions. They killed 2 people and lied about it, that means nobody could believe them a second time. Too little, too late.
The sad reality is if the Menendez brothers are released after spending 35 years in prison would mostly likely be another form of trauma. There are documented cases of high suicide rates when prisoners are released back into society. My heart just goes out for the brothers, they're dammed if they aren't released and dammed if they are.
Their working on it. But even if released it doesn't take away the trauma of the original abuse, the abuse by law enforcement, the abuse by the prosecutor (over 3 trials) and the abuse by those inside the California DOC. They will need serious assistance to slowly process reintegration. I hope they are released, I've never believed they weren't victims of abuse. Hopefully, they will have a support system if released.
@@sam-mk7uv No they didn't. And again, what kind of abuse are we talking about. What do you mean with "the abuse". It was 2 family members, 2 cousins. And their testimony wasn't proof of anything, except some emotional abuse. Apart from that, they didn't see or hear anything... They were also caught several times trying to convince other friends and family members to lie on the stand... Lil bro But let's get things straight here... There were no police officers, social workers, teachers, other family members (uncles, aunts, grand parents) at all that came forward. Out of the thousands of people and a 40 years of combined experiences, all they had to show as proof is 2 biased witnesses that didn't see anything... That and 2 pictures that can't be identified of when and who took them. That's the entire problem with this case. There is no proof that conclusive says they are innocent or guilty... It's their words vs their dead parents who can't defend themselves. And since they lied and manipulated so badly after their still heinous crimes, that made everything they said unbelievable. Remember they shot their mom 10 times! And only the last shot was fatal... They killed their parents in their sleep. The entire idea that this would be self defense is utter nonsense and that idea was thrown out by the court and the jury. They planned it weeks in advance, drove 2 hours to buy guns with a fake ID and confirmed many times to eachother to go ahead with it... Lil bro They had plenty of other avenues to get what they wanted, justice. But they took it in their own hands and then lied about it. Well then you also have to face the consequences of those lies. You can't lie about killing both your parents, then forced to come clean and expect people will believe you a second time... Lil bro They have 2 cousins that testified for them, but countless of other family members said the exact opposite... There are many more family members, friends and colleagues on the side of the parents than vice versa... Lil Bro The only thing we know for sure is that they were very strict parents with high demands. Sometimes they did go too far, but by that standard every child in 1940 was abused... Lil bro Not to mention that these guys were serial fuckups. They robbed their entire neighborhood of family heirlooms and jewelry, when at the same time they got EVERYTHING of their parents... Lil biatch
I went through a very similar situation. I was sexually abused by my biological father and my mother turned a blind eye. When I watched this, it was as if it was I on that stand. I’ve watched a few movies/series about them, but the Netflix one being the most graphic. The things they explained in such detail that happened to them, and the feelings they felt, are how people who have suffered this type of abuse feel. It is accurate to a T. I always try to keep an open mind because some have lied about their abuse, but I do feel they were abused. Not only that, they are in for life, so why would they need to lie anymore if they had been lying ?
This is amazing. How could anyone not pick up that these boys were abused? And they got tossed into jail for life. This is so sick. On so many levels. You are right, I can see these subtle cues.
Remember when Erik confessed that he knew perfectly how to play the jury... You think sociopaths can't fake emotions? They are compulsive liars Have you heard their 911 call? Crying and calling for mommy. " mommy, mommy, nooo". Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice... They shot their mom TEN times with a shotgun, buckshot at very close range... And only the last shot was fatal. That meant they emptied their barrels and reloaded next to their dying mother... They shot dad SIX times... The two sons stood over their mother, barely alive with 9 shotgun hits, reloaded and had to shoot the fatal TENTH shot... Abuse or not, that's monstrous. And especially the sexual abuse was never proven and there isn't even 1 testimony that isn't hearsay. If you leave for 2 hours, come back and then lie and cry on the phone about mommy. Then yeah, it's safe to say they are compulsive sociopaths...
@@Laughter17 They are understood very well. Tried and convicted first degree murderers and sociopaths. Pre meditated murder, no evidence of abuse and the many many lies. They are AT LEAST sociopaths. I believe in the justice system. They shot their mom with 10 shotgun shots and only the last one was fatal. It's one fake cry sob story. 2 cousins, that's all they managed to gather. Nobody else corroborates their story and even the confession of the 2 cousins is 1 hearsay and 2 only talks about emotional abuse. They are entitled, bratty, privileged sociopaths that belong in jail for life. Society can't trust them anymore and that is only due to themselves. They murdered and then they lied. Several times. Society can't believe them anymore and that's their own effing fault. Nobody else's.
you should examine the questioning just shortly after where you stopped, when lyle is asked if he did anything to his brother and you get both of their body language in one. that part, i don’t know how someone watches that and says these two lied. this case is heartbreaking in my opinion.
Thank you Dr G for covering this. I had been watching this with Legal Bytes who has been covering one of the trials from a legal stand point but I found it too triggering to watch when one of their cousins took the stand and had to stop. I fully believe the brothers and my heart feels so heavy for them. I really appreciate your doing this video.
These men were first victims of their parents and then victims of our culture. Times have changed and we have less tolerance for child abuse (although it is still way too common). These men have done plenty of time, they deserve some freedom and normalcy
They heard their mom told them she hates them since they were little , on top the abuse from their dad . They only know and feel hate , they cant tell the different between love or hate . Its such an emotional Roller coaster they endured since childhood . They becomes like this because of their parents.
Especially when Lyle talk about abusing Eric, and says he’s sorry. Eric bites his nails or sucks his thumb or something. It’s like an instant soothing reaction. 😢 it’s probably something they never talked about.
as of 2023, there was a habeas corpus filed for the brothers. there is a small amount of hope that someday they will be free. I really hope it happens.
I'm so glad I ran across this video and I thank you were taking it on. I have beliefs these gentlemen from the beginning. I believe they should have been sent for some serious rehab rather than prison. I was sexy assaulted by a relative at 8. I was fortunate and escaped it but it had had consequences for years. I told an adult, a grandmother, and was told I shouldn't make stories up and I was sent back home cutting my visit short. I can only imagine what frequently assaulted do to ones mind. You get to the point you snap. Their second trial was a sham. 30 years of their lives ruined, not counting the years they spent with their parents through the abuse. This video helped my realize that my instincts were probably right.
If only we, the viewers of this trial, understood then what we understand now about sexual abuse to children. It was so secretive back then we couldn’t fathom a parent would do this. And then for these two young men who had to describe such painful experiences only to be called liars afterwards. I feel so hurtful for them both.
I couldn’t come out and tell anyone until 32 to my girlfriend. Only her I felt safe to finally speak about what a family had done to me from perhaps toddler age until around 10 years old. I used to drink a lot before then and I would wake up hungover and because I blacked out when drunk would have panic attacks that maybe I told someone what happened to me. Never thinking that the person would’ve actually wanted to help me. I just thought if I said it out loud my life would be over for some reason. Probably because of the threats I held onto as a little kid that kept me from saying anything then. I remember I would have these panic attacks at school that go worse each year as I went onto higher grades as I aged. I’d have this completely irrational thought that what if all the kids at school came to know what happened and again my life would be over. I will just add to this incase anyone is worried for me. I’m good now. I’ve had therapy. I’m now ok at talking about what happened and I am happy and have wonderful friends and a cute little dog.
There is NO CHANGE in "understanding" back then or present day about child abuse! The problem here is a difference in thought patterns between men and women. Women let child abuse stories cloud their judgement because they personalize the stories, become emotional, etc and subliminally are harder on other women so they mentally place most of the blame on the mother. Men listen to the child abuse stories for legal justification of the actual murder charges the brothers faced for killing their parents as adults and conclude this was a revenge killing by two young adults NOT self-defense against an active attacker. From a legal and FACTUAL basis there neither brothers' testimony provided any legal justification for them killing their mother. The mother was not abusing them as adults, not threatening to kill them, and died next to a stack of college applications she filled out for Erik!
@@cjking4511 The fact that you can watch their heartbreaking testimonies, learn about the evidence of abuse (including pictures, medical records, etc) and what they family testified about their brutal and abusive parents and feel absolutely nothing really does say alot about you as a person. And this is what disgusts me.
More great content! The meteoric rise of the channel is in full swing and well deserved. Interested in some content on paul Bernardo and karla homolka.
I was fairly young during this trial but I didn't believe the motive was greed. I think the Menendez family's affluence was a big influence in the court of public opinion. It was assumed that the brothers were simply greedy. It is a miscarriage of justice to not consider the affects of severe abuse on these young boys. Premeditated murder is never excusable but I think they should have served time for a lesser crime.
I can NOT believe these poor poor souls are still locked up. Multiple tragedies in this case, it’s a wonder anyone can have faith in people and justice when this is happening, still.
@@okao08what? Because they had money? Money doesn’t mean spoiled brats. Loads of wealthy families are highly dysfunctional and abusive. You think your father abusing you sexually is them spoiling you? wtf is wrong with you
5:14 is exactly how you know of their truth! The way he naturally tried to protect his body the very second he thought of that memory. FREE THESE SURVIVORS
As a trauma survivor, this was really difficult to watch. Thank you for the trigger warning. Their testimonies didn't affect me as much as their genuine emotions did. No one could fake that. The dissociation, the break in eye contact, the softer voice, the tears and shame. Thank you, Dr. G.
It was very gut wrenching, bottom of the soul, heartbreaking testimony
As a trauma survivor I had no question in my mind they are genuine.... :(
@@chellefell1331 same here, I’m in therapy now sorting it all out, sure is helping, learning a lot
Agreed! If this case came through in today's social climate and awareness of SA victims within a family dynamic, I don't believe the Menendez brothers would have had the outcome from the trial, verdict, etc then, today. Being a victim myself, we can feel his pain and reality. This is hard to watch, I was young when this went to trial.
As an abuse victim survivor THey MOST DEFINITELY 💯 WERE SPEAKING TRUTH!!
Its extremely cruel to make grown men publicly talk about about something they hate and feel embarrassed of, watch them cry and suffer and not believe them anything in the end. Thats just disgusting and painful
So true, so true!
@riki1969...my husband is the same age as Lyle and it's very difficult for him to talk about the SA he endured as a boy today. I cannot image what it must have been like back then. They need to be freed, not retried. They have been punished enough.
It’s a trial!
💯 %
not just grown men but people in general. kids, women, boys, girls. all of it
The way the parents were killed in such a BRUTAL manner tells me there was a ton of emotional damage behind it.
Duh
The reason that Lyle's attorneys changed defense strategies was that Lyle did not want to testify because of damaging impeachment evidence the prosecution had gathered since the first trial. Lyle was considered a sympathetic witness during the first trial, however prosecutors had tape recorded conversations between Lyle and Norma Novelli, Lyle's one-time confident, where Lyle describes how he "snowed" the jury at his first trial with his testimony about abuse. The prosecution also discovered a letter Lyle had written to a former girlfriend instructing her on how to testify at the first trial. Because Lyle did not testify, his attorneys were not able to call child abuse experts to testify about his state of mind. Without Lyle's testimony, he was not able to use the same defense as he had in his first trial... He knew he lied about it and many other things, so he couldn't testify because of HIS OWN LIES!!!!!
@@FragLordThat still doesn't prove he lied about everything. He told mostly truths and no one believed him so...
Being sympathetic to a murderer is just strange
@@GameChanger597 that's not how it works in court. If you are caught lying several times, they assassinate your character.
Erik lied so much that he was unable to testify in the second trial. Without his testimony, there was no case for sexual abuse.
Not only that, but the defense falsified one of the statements of the experts. That expert too lost face and wasn't credible anymore, as was the entire defense team.
That's why they didn't talk about it in the second trial. That and the fact there were no eye witnesses and no physical evidence.
At the end of the day, it all comes down to hard facts. And they have none, except their own testimony and since they lied so much, they are hence unbelievable.
It's bad enough they were never believed or protected, but then to be sentenced to life without parole after all they had been through? Those boys never had a chance.
It’s so awful. I used to think ppl who were rich had it all. But obviously this is not the case here. We never know what ppl are really going through. This video made me cry. So so sad. Horrible parents.
That’s right!!! All the ‘pity’ goes to the molester monsters!!!! ?????Taking 2 beautiful, sweet,normal innocent toddlers and from then on twisting, and warping and shaming & destroying their very SOULS!!!! No one can even comprehend.One week of the way these boys lived and most boys/ girls would have done something awful Yet, with God, they do have a chance....SET THEM FREE!!!!It is shameful that they were born into a living HELL and on top of it are expected to live the rest of life in a hell as well😮😢Cruel, unusual “punishment” if you ask me. It is just WRONG!!!May God be with them❤There are soooo many Erik & Lyle’s out there, it is a disgrace, an unspeakable disgrace. We MUST SPEAK!!!
Not to mention during their second trial they werent even allowed to present their main argument the abuse
It is awful this does happen and no one seem to do anything to protect those boys. They father from what I hear was a wealthy person and could do anything in his power to prevent himself or his wife from going to jail for abusing their sons.
@@BlackCatFilmProductions that’s how it always is but thing is the prosecutor and judge already had their minds made up that men can’t be raped but if they were two females this wouldn’t even if of went to trial I’m thinking about writing newsome to get them a pardon
I think he laughed/smile as a response from the audience. They all tried to lighten the moment for him, and he joined to relief himself from the topic.
exactly. throughout the entire questioning portion of the trial, he disassociates and there’s even that moment where he completely blocked out what his attorney asked him because it was so triggering. it makes sense that he would try to laugh and smile to make himself feel better
Think it’s hyper vigilance too
@joi-hannahcallahan5787 not at all, this was rehearsed with his legal team.
@@laurasalo6160 0% credible, he is recalling abuse and rape. There is no reason to smile.
@@BlissDecision do you mean the whole thing was faked tho?
I’m a trauma survivor, and watching Erik’s reaction when asked about the “rough sex” at 6:46 made my heart break for him. I know that body language. The dissociation. The shame, confusion and disgust. It was horrible for me as an adult, but for a child? It’s just beyond tragic.😢
Exactly, it was really hard to watch… I truly hope they’ll go out of jail, 30+ years is more than enough…
But why lyle told the lady that he was in love with differently?
They are lying sociopaths. You think people can't fake? You do realize that the series is played by actors... Didn't you believe their acting? There is an entire industry made around, faking emotions...
They lied about the murders, lied to the judge, the defense was forced to retract statements in the second trial, because one of their experts lied on the stand.
The reason that Lyle's attorneys changed defense strategies was that Lyle did not want to testify because of damaging impeachment evidence the prosecution had gathered since the first trial.
Lyle was considered a sympathetic witness during the first trial, however prosecutors had tape recorded conversations between Lyle and Norma Novelli, Lyle's one-time confident, where Lyle describes how he "snowed" the jury at his first trial with his testimony about abuse. The prosecution also discovered a letter Lyle had written to a former girlfriend instructing her on how to testify at the first trial.
Because Lyle did not testify, his attorneys were not able to call child abuse experts to testify about his state of mind. Without Lyle's testimony, he was not able to use the same defense as he had in his first trial...
He knew he lied about it and many other things, so he couldn't testify because of HIS OWN LIES!!!!!
They are liars and monsters
@@youniverseandeye I can’t speak on why another trauma survivor would choose what and how to disclose.🤷♀️
@@nathmbr3700do you think they should had gone to jail?
I completely agree. I was a child when this case took place, but I watched one of the documentaries a few years ago with the brothers’ testimony included and I really felt their genuine emotion. And their were also multiple family members who corroborated the abuse occurred.
As a therapist, I worked on a women’s trauma unit and I’ve worked with multiple women who’s mothers turned a blind eye to their children being sexually/physically abused by their fathers or mom’s boyfriend, etc…
I’ll never forget, at the start of my career (17 yrs ago) I had a family meeting with my patient and her mom and the mom said to her daughter (my patient) “Well you wore those short shorts around him (moms boyfriend)” and she was referring to when her daughter was 7! She was blaming her 7 year old daughter for a grown man sexually abusing her. I was so young at this time myself and not as experienced as I am now. My jaw hit the floor and I ended the meeting, told mom to leave, so I could support my patient. I’ll never forget that experience.
They were being abused so they should have moved the hell out and moved on
Que espanto 😢😢😢
@godlygirls62 sexual or any abuse effects you mentally. It's nota black or white, just move on scenario.
I honestly can't believe there are women like that out there. Talking to a 7 year old child like that... disgraceful.
Thank you for sharing Hope. And this right here is why there was a mistrial for the Menendez brothers, the jury was hung because it wasn't believed that boys in general were sexually abused and brothers made it up.
This is why the shopping spree and parties after the fact makes sense to me. They weren't emotionally connected to their parents except through fear and obligation. With that weight gone you'd feel free, like you could do anything. They started businesses and hired a tennis coach. They did things to better their lives. If they weren't caught they'd both probably be very successful today.
The two brothers didnt want to study or work hard, lyle bought a restaurant only to left to two friends, Erick only wanted to be a tenis superstar both drop college, Jose was a monster but everyone agree was hardworking and gain every penny their sons only one to spend it
@@jessicagudino8461pretty sure with all the dad pressure abd traumas they didnt want to be like dad😉
They were spoiled brats. The way they killed their parents, the way they tried to manipulate witnesses and all of their actions afterwards shows how evil these spoiled brats were
No, I don't think that was the case. It was shame money, so they simply were getting rid of it. They were wasting it. Also, it was a way to block things out (disassociate from the actual event).
Thanks so much,clearly these young men are being truthful
Feel for them,thank G-D they didn't get the death sentence ❤
People who have experienced abuse recognize this as genuine. I wish everyone could see it.
I would say anyone who is able to read human emotions can recognise this as genuine. I believe the ones who are dismissing them aren't able to read human emotions OR are abusers a d bullys. It's not an accident that they are targeted and defamed so badly.
I actually recognize it from my Husband passing and when certain memories come up.
I don't think I've been this upset about being touched, because it wasn't my parents.
Breaks my heart to watch this. I sincerely hope both men get a new trial with the recent evidence that has come to light
What is the recent evidence? Just heard about this case, I think they are telling the truth but I don't think it was right to kill their parents as it got them life in prison, they could have maybe taken other steps, I don't know what the exact feelings and emotions were like, also their father being a powerful person made it more dangerous to just leave, also I think the abused generally thinks the abuser to be invincible or too powerful atleast that's what I felt when I had bad experience with my stepfather, though it was not sexual or too physical.
I don't think they could get a new trial, but maybe a re-sentencing. They're still guilty of first degree murder, they're not legally insane, but there's a reason to be more merciful in their sentencing. They should have to go through some kind of inpatient therapy before they're ever released though, IMO
They absolutely can get a new trial, as evidence was withheld, previously. Also, there was a letter Erik wrote to his cousin, talking about the abuse, long before the murders. They could also be resentenced. However, I believe they should be pardoned. They were viciously abused. If Gypsy Rose Blanchard can be let out to run amok, when she is beyond guilty and wasn't even actually abused, these 2 deserve to be granted freedom. @@ToyotaGuy1971
@@raghavgahtori7963there was a hand written letter from Erik to his cousin, long before the murder, discussing the abuse. This letter was withheld and never spoken of at trial. There are other things as well. Witnesses that weren't called, who had testimony that proved the abuse. These men deserve to be pardoned. They were viciously sexually abused by their own parents.
What about the fact that they tried to manipulate and bribe many witnesses. Their spending spree and most of their actions after their parents death doesn’t collaborate with they are saying!
Also the way they killed their parents shows how evil and rotten these people were
This was so informative to me. I truly have developed empathy for the trauma these young men have been through. Thank you for your videos. I learn so much from you Dr. G.
There's talk of sex, gay sex, rough sex etc. But where are the words rape, paedophile, grooming. Even the way their own defence lawyers phrased the questions....
because erik had his own names for the different types of sexual abuse his father put him through so the defence lawyer when asking questions used the names he had for these things.
Because abused people who have been groomed from 6 and 7 years old are programed by their abusers that it isnt rape. It's the reason that at 18 it was still happening. Which likely caused more shame then the actual abuse. Knowing it's wrong but not stopping it because you "let" it happen so often makes you feel complicit.
At that time male SA wasn’t recognized
The terminology you suggest should have been used are words that either have legal or clinical definitions. When talking with victims, the victims use their own words as they usually are not lawyers, clinicians or professional victim advocates. In fact, using words like "grooming" or "pedophilia" would make the testimony less authentic.
Consider a person testifying about a being hit by a car, driven by a drunk driver. Would you feel it necessary for them to refer to themself as a pedestrian and the drive as an impaired motor vehicle operator, and use terminology if say, they broke their leg? Or would they likely talk about walking, being hit by a crazy driver and getting their leg smashed up? Doesn't that testimony sound realistic? Let the judges, lawyers, insurance companies and doctors use the terminology proper for their own context, the patient or victim doesn't need to, to tell their story.
I think it would be in part because they didn't know it was r*pe ect as kids and many victims find it hard to call the abuse what it was, but I think also the defence had to soften the language because they didn't want the prosecution to say it was a revenge k*lling because their defense was that it was imperfect self defense. I read that somewhere, so it might not be accurate, n I've explained it badly, sorry.
I’ve watched these testimonies and they’re absolutely gut wrenching. It broke my heart. 💔
As someone who has PTSD as a direct result of abuse by the system I can assure you, these young men are telling the truth. We try to avoid the pain as much as possible by not talking or thinking about the abuse, the trail was as if they were abused again. Horrific miscarriage of justice happened here!
@CryptoJace So if you could change their sentence, what would you give them?
@@ToyotaGuy1971They would've been paroled DECADES ago😢
They deserve to be pardoned. No parole, no nothing. Just open the doors and let them out.
They needed to be put in a psychiatric facility until they were better. No term but what they experienced did require psychological care
But even at that time people were so judgmental I dunno if it would’ve helped
It honestly baffles me that people think they could be lying about this. They were (are) so consistent with what happened, details no one would think to make up, so many witnesses to strange behaviour by their father etc. it’s a total miscarriage of justice that they are still in prison
I agree! They are not a danger to anyone, and have actually helped countless people --far more than that biased judge ever could. 😡
It baffles me that a lot of People are so naive to think that these guys are not lying. Being consistent about what supposly happened doesn't mean they are not lying. There were some questionable testemonies as well and there was no real evidence. Those whole story seems to be made up to cover things.
😂😂😂
@@i_am_human76 youre a terrible ignorant person
@@i_am_human76 what kind of evidence please can you tell
Dr.G, I agree. I am 73 years old now and when I was about 13 and 14 my dad, brother and two of my uncles raped me. Even after many years of therapy I felt it must have been something about me that I somehow caused it.
Thank God that I had a truly wonderful husband who was always very gentle and very understanding when in the middle of of private times I had to stop.
I know it couldn’t have been very easy on him.
We were blessed with 45 years together before he got sick and died here in our home in my arms.
Omg that's so hard to hear, I'm very sorry
That is horrible and I’m truly sorry that happened to you in your childhood. So happy that you found a good man and had him for 45 yrs. You’ll meet again… 🤍I believe that.
@@DeRockMedia oh gosh, I just reread my post and I think I have made it seem as if it was the four of them at one time. It wasn’t, I thank God that it was at separate times.
I have only realized now that at least with my brother and uncles that they bragged to each other and probably told each other that “she’ll never tell” and I didn’t. The first uncle was living with us at the time and he kept saying “who do you think your mother believe, you or me her brother “?
I was a very naïve child and I believed him.
All four of them have died and have had to stand before God Almighty and answer for what they did.
Thank you for your comment.
@@toribern419 I know and believe with all my heart ♥️ that I will see him and our three sons again. God is good always but there are some really bad people that live among us. Thank you.
@@louettesommers8594 Oh no i didnt assume that, but it doesnt matter, it still was horrible and NEVER should of happened... ppl like that should be put down, its beyond unfair. Im glad you are doing better though, I wish you the best rest of your life :)
This one has always stuck with me. It never felt like a performance to me.
I have a C-PTSD from my own childhood trauma and watching Erik is like watching myself. I can’t even imagine answering to such intrusive questions in public, in court, when it was difficult enough in a privacy of my therapist’s office to share it… And I was well into my 30s when I first opened up about it. It’s truly heartbreaking to watch…
Couldn’t agree more
Im so sorry :(
These boys were failed by their parents and then failed by the justice system. I believe them to my core. Our prison practices set inmates up for failure, nothing about the environment was designed with their personal growth in mind, or with the goal of leaving people better than they're found. Especially considering how young they were, their decades-long clean track record as inmates is a huge testament to their integrity. I'm glad they were finally allowed at the same facility but it's time they're allowed out.
How were they failed by the justice system, by not ordering them to go through therapy instead of prison? What sentence would you have given them, knowing what you now know?
@@ToyotaGuy1971 Therapy is the only "sentencing" these boys deserve. What they did was imo a justified response to the abhorrent crimes committed upon them.
@@GoldenWreck But no one gets those kind of sentences, because the country is ruled by an oligarchy, and they want the money for housing and rehabilitating mentally ill people to go into their own pockets, so first we'd have to remove the oligarchy by bringing back democracy with a unified/unionized workforce having the collective bargaining-power to exert our collective will over the oligarchs with the threat of mass coordinated strikes. A real labor party, giving us real representaion - a real democracy. That's what it would take to get those kind of sentences for mentally ill people again
@@GoldenWreckI agree with you. They didn't deserve the sentence they got. They should have been let out so long ago. Meanwhile, Gypsy Rose is a complete psychopath and she's being made out to be a saintly victim. What she did is so much worse than what the brothers did.
They killed their parents for money.
Thats why they killed them instead of just leaving the house for good.
Their mother wasnt abusive to them. And even so they murdered her too
When he dissociates, then comes out of it and then smiles, it's like he was hypnotized. He doesn't know what the others saw him do.
Excellent point!!
People automatically smile when others do. We're social beings.
💯 on point.
When you dissociate it is automatic; just like breathing, when you come out you try to read the room and fall in line hoping no one notices, because you can’t explain what you can’t remember.
he smiles, because it is false. It was rehearsed, it was an audition. Not consistent with trauma
6:38 as someone with PTSD dissociation looks exactly like that. It genuinely messed you up so bad.
Wow. A very heavy one, Dr.G! I know a lot of people had requested analysis of these two. I think it’s great that you’re posting some video analyses of what you believe to be truthful body behavior, rather than just focusing on who you think is being deceptive. It really helps me learn the differences.
Thank you! I am a huge fan!!!
Thank you so much 🙏🏼
Every body analyst I’ve seen has said the same thing about the Menendez brothers. And as a trauma survivor I feel like even if the circumstances were really different you can tend to identify a fellow survivor. They’ve always read mostly authentic to me. Showing a vulnerability to a society who was insensitive about it, to a level I don’t think I would be able to do.
7:35 I don’t know what they were laughing about either, but I feel like he laughs because he’s so uncomfortable with the subject, and having just been so on display and singled out. So when people start laughing at something he joins in to become part of “the group” again.
This one was hard to watch. Especially since back when I was a kid I remember thinking of them as guilty monsters. But now that I'm in my 40s, I genuinely feel bad for them.
Me too! Remember this on the news as a kid but paid no mind. The media made them monsters. Tonight is the first time I’m like let them out of prison
Same here! I was in high school when they were arrested and the media made them out to be spoiled brats that killed their parents for the money. So that’s how I always thought of them. Now I feel differently, they lived in a house of horrors!
Yeah the media painted that narrative and I fell for it- why the jury ruled as they did is sickening cuz they got to hear it all not like us only seeing what the media wanted us to see
Im here, crying, because i feel not only bad for what these men went through by their father but also feeling guilty that as a teenager since i didnt watch this trial I just assumed that since they were put in jail that they were evil for killing their innocent parents 😢
it’s crazy how you wrote this comment 1yr ago and the title of the show is literally called: Monsters which you kinda predicted
I believed them when I first watched their interviews and was shocked to hear how they were separated in prison for so many years😔
@@judy-yv2zs I didn't know that because they sounded to be disgusted about it, their father made the older brother do it
So thrilled to hear they may be released next month. I am praying for their release!
Seriously where did you read about it can you please share
Pray they also get emotional and spiritual healing and freedom from the trauma.
Wow, this was so interesting, Dr. G. I remember this trial well and I remember thinking the brothers were making all this up. Boy, was I wrong. So fascinating to hear your take, and now I'm ashamed at what I thought. So glad you analyzed this for us.
I remember the trial as well and, back then, I had assumed they had made it all up as well. I was surprised by my own observations when I was reviewing the trial footage.
Imagine if you were on the jury.
Same here 😢
Of course it's all made up.
Exactly how I felt. Watching this has made me completely believe them now. Omg, this is heartbreaking.
Wow! I've never really paid attention to the details of this case, but this is truly horrible 😔 I have a lot of empathy for the brothers.
As someone that was Sexual abused as a kid know this is true.
This was tough to watch, thank you for covering this. I hope the brothers get a new trial.
I can't agree more. Certainly when Lyle describes his father sliding of his pants and he knew what was going to happen is something only a real victim would emphasise. Liars would make it more about the insertion of the objects. How awful this must have been your dad telling you this was love. 😢
The reason that Lyle's attorneys changed defense strategies was that Lyle did not want to testify because of damaging impeachment evidence the prosecution had gathered since the first trial. Lyle was considered a sympathetic witness during the first trial, however prosecutors had tape recorded conversations between Lyle and Norma Novelli, Lyle's one-time confident, where Lyle describes how he "snowed" the jury at his first trial with his testimony about abuse. The prosecution also discovered a letter Lyle had written to a former girlfriend instructing her on how to testify at the first trial. Because Lyle did not testify, his attorneys were not able to call child abuse experts to testify about his state of mind. Without Lyle's testimony, he was not able to use the same defense as he had in his first trial... He knew he lied about it and many other things, so he couldn't testify because of HIS OWN LIES!!!!!
@@FragLordThey aren’t lies the things they went through were very real.
@@katiemccracken2317 No evidence and no eye witnesses. There is no proof for sexual abuse. And the rest of the abuse is nearly not enough to kill people over.
That's the entire point, we only have their word to go on. And they have lied several times about many crimes. So no, they aren't believable anymore and that's their own fault.
I think they are lies and you think they are not. Accept it. Some people don't believe them and so does the law and the justice system.
@@FragLord it’s also not impossible that his childish statements behind or in the first trials were caused by his frozen emotional development which is actually very common for people who experienced abuse in early childhood. he could’ve lied out of panic, out of shame, out of confusion, plus people who suffered traumatic events tend to have emotional outbursts which is an inability to regulate feelings a probable cause why their actions seem impulsive or irrational. this lack of emotional regulation, paired with feelings of guilt or confusion about the abuse, can lead to behavior that might appear manipulative or erratic to outsiders but could be a manifestation of unresolved trauma. just imagine how a 6 year old speak in trial.
@@ZaWarudoButKakyoinLived But he was not a 6 year old. There is no evidence for sexual abuse, there are no eye witnesses of sexual abuse. The 2 witnesses they had were 1 hearsay and 2 didn't say anything about sexual abuse.
They didn't say anything to their psych about sexual abuse.
They instructed witnesses to lie and how to lie. That's the entire reason Erik didn't testify and subsequently why there wasn't a case for sexual abuse in the second trial.
Did you listen to their 9/11 call? If they can fake that, they can fake anything.
I can't believe them, because of their own actions. And they lied their way into their own predicament. Nobody is guilty of that, besides themselves.
Abuse or no abuse. At the end of the day, we have to follow the letter of the law. And all we know for sure is 1) they did premeditated murder 2) they lied about the murders and 3) Because of those lies and many other lies, their testimonies are useless. And again, that's their own fault. 4) thus they are guilty of first degree murder and there are only 2 outcomes. Life or death.
Justice is about evidence. IF you don't have it, you don't have a case. It's that simple. I don't want innocent people behind bars either, but they ain't. They are murderers and liars. They shot their parents a combined 16 times, 10 shotgun shots to the mother of only the last one was fatal. That's ice cold.
The abuse was not allowed to be part of the second trial. Which IMO is absolutely disgusting considering it is definitely their primary motivation.
Some of it was admitted but not all of it. The main part that was not admitted was witness testimony which is the most important part.
I agree..the abuse evidence should have been allowed in the 2nd trial!
You are very experienced and skilled in your practice of body language analysis.
there is actually a good amount of evidence that proves they were abused. letters, family members that knew, other victims, photographs, medical records, etc. I wish more people looked into this case instead of just seeing that they were rich, and then assuming they did it for the money.
The did it for revenge AND money. Neither brother said the mother was abusing them as adults yet they killed her.
@@cjking4511lyle said his mother abused him sexually as a child giving him "genital examinations". and it's a form abuse (even monstorous) to witness your kids getting molested and allowing it to happen.
@@cjking4511if money was a motive then no amount of money in the world could possibly heal them from what they endured
@@mm-gp3lh Their motive was "revenge AND money" NOT just money.
@@cjking4511 This is just wrong, both testified to abuse by their mother at their trials that they experienced their entire lives. Other relatives testified to the abuse. They also testified how she was aligned with their father and they were as afraid of her as they were afraid of him. Plus that they found out she knew about Jose's sexual abuse all along and did nothing. Also the money motive makes no sense to the point the prosecution couldn't even get an indictment on it.
Another witness came forward about their dads abuse. A letter talking about the abuse was buried, or not allowed to come into evidence. I don’t think they’re a danger to society, they’ve been in prison a long time and should be let out. What happened to them…. is so horrible. Their sick father is where he belongs. Mom didn’t protect them. My heart goes out to these brothers.
So sad. So sad.
They didn't even go 2 the police 2 report their dad..no dairies nothing.a letter a few months before the killings..the reason they didn't go 2 the police was simply because if dad is put in jail they boys don't get money from the wil..when if they had of really been sa..they could of sued him..they full of bs.2 spoilt pos who wanted 2 kil & only Eric couldn't live with it & told.the doctor..but didn't mention sa 2 the doctor
I understand the smiling which seemed out of place. It’s a coping mechanism. I am a trauma survivor and used to laugh at inappropriate times as a way of hiding what I was really feeling and could not express, much less identify. The boys’ behavior here was 100% authentic. Yes, they did the crime, but it’s totally understandable what led to it. The level of rage in them was a huge, no longer controllable force. With you all the way, Dr. G!
I asked you to cover this case a little while back, Dr. G! Thank you for this. I think about these two men and their case often and it breaks my heart. Couldn't help but cry throughout your analysis. Thank you again for the video :)
As a person with CPTSD and a sensitive person..I know and can feel the heaviness and pain they felt as they described the details. It is very difficult to watch. I never questioned their authenticity while on the stand.
My god, these poor boys.... To think that they are still in jail is utterly unthinkable.
Knowing how it feels to be SA'd by a parent (stepdad n my case) for YEARS, & my mom did nothing. Was scared 4 my life. Had i had the chance 2 kill him i would had. The SA isnt a 1 or 2 time thing. Hundreds.
😢 sorry you went through that
I am so sorry you had to go through that I had a diffrent type of abuse I agree thanks for showing i'm not insane hope your in a more loving community
This made me cry. I feel for those boys. They have gone through hell. They deserve all the support of their country and fellowmen. ❤
So sorry for what you went through. Mine was an uncle & I still struggle with those demons to this day & I am almost 60 years old 😥 My heart goes out to those brothers & I think they should get another trial since so many of the allegations were not permitted in their first trial.
I'm so glad you find them genuine. As an abuse victim myself, I can feel their pain it is oozing from them 💔💔 and I didn't suffer anywhere near as much as these two poor boys.
It's absolutely awful and I can see why they broke.
I've seen them in a later interview where the state they feel happier and safer now, than they ever did in their multimillion dollar home. Soooo sad...
This is very informative, thank you. These boys shouldn't be in prison. Shattered my heart 😢
I have always believed these boys (who are now middle aged men that are much older than me), and I'm so glad you are of the same belief. They need to be released ASAP
I always believed them, but the murders were so horrific, It’s not like a judge can say you ambushed them and shot them repeatedly, and called the police and said you found them like this. But because you were horrifically abused for years. We’ll just let yall go home.
I believe because they have served time. It’s time for them to go home. I have much compassion for them and hope and pray they will be able to have a life of freedom.
When this trial was happening in real time, I didn’t keep up on the details of their testimonies. Praying for these two men and all abused children. Heartbreaking.
The brothers should be pardoned and compensated for the injustices perpetrated on them.
I think they deserve a new trial . There is new evidence that could change the conviction from premeditated murder to manslaughter. It’s obvious to me that the crime was in a rage . There is a better understanding of the dynamics involved in SA since the time in which they were convicted.
I agree!
No new evidence justifies them killing their mother or the false perception they feared their mother was going to kill them.
@@cjking4511keep defending pedophiles and those who allow it to happen.
@@cjking4511 The mother also sexually abused one of them and she absolutely knew what was going on with the father and the children. She is a diabolical excuse for a mother let alone a human being. Of course Im not insinuating she deserved to die, however, it is very clear WHY they killed her as well as their father.
@@WakeyWakeyEggsandBakey That would be a mitigating factor if they were still children but these were grown men. Lyle should have stayed in NJ in that condo Jose bought him and never came back. Erik should have moved out to college yet he never turned in his on campus housing form in March when it was due. It is subjective why they killed their parents meaning emotional people will believe it was a revenge killing against their former child abusers and objective people will believe the the evidence that both parents told their adult sons they were being disinherited so they killed them to keep their access to Jose’s money and not have to go to college. There is witness testimony to support both sides but either way the murders were legally unjustified
My soul breaks for both of them, to have that many people take the stand and testify to the abuse and they weren’t believed is absolutely mind blowing
Excellent analysis. This is such a tragic case.
Ive heard of this case but never watched anything on it until now. That broke my heart hearing them testify!! As children we deserve nothing less then to be protected by our parents. What's one to do when your own parents are the monsters💔I pray they've found some kind of peace
Their "parents " were monsters. I am so sorry for what you went through, Eric and Lyle. ❤
Yes exactly!!! They are just two little lambs that shot their parents in cold blood, let them free omg
Pathetic dude :))))
I mean I have been SAd worse than what they were talking about they definitely aren’t victims because I wouldn’t ever do what they did
@@SammySwift3128 agreed...I do not agree with the murder but the way their parents treated them was horrible
@@SammySwift3128wow what a way to invalidate someone's experience. Shame on you
Fantastic analysis of the Menendez Brothers at trial. My blood boils when I hear people say the brothers lied about sexual, emotional, physical abuse in the family home. Sadly, ptsd and mental health wasn't even a thing at the time of this trial. Some much has been learned about mental health and thank goodness we live in an age it's finally talked about and accepted including it being admissible in court.
*Edit, also wanted to add that Lyle's 'wounded inner child' comes out in his body language, it's like I'm watching a child in a grown up body.
Omg Dr. G, your analysis on this is absolutely 100% spot on. I suffer with C-PTSD and Can definitely relate with the symptoms of how this diagnosis presents itself!! I am so so so glad I found your channel. You do amazing presenting your analysis in a very non judgemental and non bias way. Thank you Dr. G👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼😁😁😁
You changed my opinion on them, entirely!
I always had an eerie gut feeling that something about them was off. I am glad you chose to dive into the hardest parts of their testimony to prove your opinion and educate us. Informative and thorough - as always. Thank you Dr G!
Love your videos! Hope you keep doing them. You are much more clear and specific than others w/o do this on TH-cam.
I'm so glad that Dr G is talking about this. So much of what happened to them seemed wrong. I keep hoping that somehow they will be able to get out of their lifelong nightmare. But by now, they must be so broken. It is almost unbearable to think about.
They’re both doing pretty well in prison actually, Both of them are in a place called Echo Yard which focuses more on rehabilitation and both brothers are in leadership positions and are well respected by other inmates.
@@YourEverydaySheep That is good to hear. I guess. Thank you for letting me know.
The idea of their going from a childhood of constant terror and sexual abuse to...an adulthood exactly the same... Unbearable.
I recall things that people, adults, who knew their father said about him. One of his colleagues said "the person most likely to be murdered", when asked to explain, the man said he always expect Mr Menendez to be murdered because he behaviour was so egregious, so profoundly horrible, and he was that way to everyone who had ever met him.
It also seems so strange to me that a parent can be constantly horribly psychologically and emotionally abusive, and physically (but not sexually) and the US "justice" system takes the stance of "well they were coddled, but nothing wrong there", but the second sexual abuse is thrown in , THEN it becomes wrong.(& of course it is horribly wrong)
Why exactly is psychologically torturing children okay? Or considered to be "just" "firm parenting." In a work place such behaviour is illegal. But at home, to defenseless children it is "parenting". Unbelievable.
At least in almost every EU country parents are not allowed to physically punish children anymore. A smack will get them arrested...as some tourists from other countries have found out to their outrage "what? I'm not allowed to do to my child something that would get me arrested if I did it to an adult, how uncivilized?"
First they experienced the abuse
Then they had to disclose it multiple times
With the lawyer
With the trial
With interviews
For what?
They were sent to jail in spite of the trauma & public disclosure of it ...
What could be worse than living, re-living it and still get punished for not "telling the truth"
Terrible case... :(
You have brought such insight into this very sad case. Thank you for your sensitivity while the men were telling their horrible stories.
It’s a sad reality that these boys are serving life without parole & we’re hugely vilified by the media, yet Gypsy Rose only got 10 years & is treated like a celebrity.
Both endured abuse, both thought there was no other way out of their situation other than to end the life of their abuser(s). Why are the Menendez brothers seen as monsters but everyone sympathizes with Gypsy. ?
Thank you for analyzing this video. I always felt so bad for these boys. The pain in their voices when they testified was unbelievable, but because of what these brothers did after the crime, they threw the book at them.
And here is a question that I have always wondered:: had they never ended the lives of their parents, do you think they ever would have told anyone about what was happening to them? And IF they did tell someone, what would the likely outcome be? I honestly think if they did spill the beans to someone about the abuse that was happening at home, I think their parents would find a way to have these boys committed to a mental health facility and have them legally considered “ crazy” so that nobody would ever believe anything that they said.
I believe that these boys KNEW this & were threatened mercilessly by their parents.
I hope & pray that these boys get a new trial & a chance to live a life without the control of their parents. ❤
Because Gypsy Rose is a master manipulator herself and through her learning disabled boyfriend under the bus in order to appear like the poor little girl who is constantly victimised. She said he SAd her after the murder but in fact she went into the bathroom as the killing was occurring in order to shave herself ready. Absolutely disgusting she got 10 years and her boyfriend got life without parole. She really fleeced those investigators imo.
I agree with this so much! Gypsy Rose was never even abused. Everything she's said has been a lie and it's been proven repeatedly. She seems to get all the special treatment when real victims are punished for being victims.
Actually they did tell to their cousin and uncle about the abuse.
@@amidoll313huh?! What are you talking about? Her mother abused the hell out of her
I don't think the boys were thinking that far ahead but they definitely felt trapped. Their father was a very powerful man. So just escaping the 4 walls of their house wouldn't have made much difference. But all they really wanted was to escape the endless abuse.
I love your videos!! Especially relating to the Menendez Case, personally, I'd love to see you do more, especially a video Soley on Lyle's testimony!❤
I remember this but was too young to understand what happened. I really appreciate your style of playing back 2 or 3 times on key moments. That really helps me in spotting what you have explained. Thank you.
The look in their eyes, the pain, the shame, the destroyed child inside him, i feel it, and i have always felt bad for these brothers. And I will continue to.
I am not saying murder is right, though, lol…. i just feel him on his trauma..and it is something that turns you into someone or something other than who you could have been, without the child abuse.
I personally believe these brothers should have been treated in a psych center.
Thank you, Dr. G.
Such an interesting and emotional case, for the childhood victims.
edit:word
💔
They weren't we kids..2 grown men..wouldn't report dad 2 the cops..wanted the house money & mum dad gone
Lol you’re funny. They killed them for the money.. Money they already had? Really? None of that adds up. If that’s the case WHY did the dad possess child p*** of both of the boys? Why did NEIGHBORS testify to José showing child p*** at a dinner and laughing about it? Why did ALL of their cousins come forward and say when Jose was alone in a room with the boys nobody was to even go on that FLOOR. Why did Erik write to his cousin 9 months BEFORE the murders expressing fear of his father r*ping him again? Why why why? You can’t answer. Because they are telling the truth.
@@Chop2016you are too dumb for this kind of situation. Go back to the Disney channel kid.
@@Chop2016They were rich and plus all their parents cared about was success. They hated their kids and everyone else in the family confirmed it.
I’m so sorry that nobody has ever talked about what you explained here!!! 😭 I’m sure there were people like you on the court!
06:12 - I understand dissociation perfectly- I believe him… I believe them both. It’s heartbreaking 💔
This is so hard to watch (I have 2 young sons). Thank you for explaining the details, the pain these boys went through is unimaginable. This is the first time I hear about this case and I was thinking why the mother did do anything to stop her husband... Obviously she would know, it's hard to imagine she wouldn't question some of the things that were happening. And then I learned she was involved. I can't imagine how much abuse was in this family when the kids had nobody they could trust, nobody who could protect them. Thank you again for making this videos, maybe people can learn and pay attention to some signs of kids being abused.
I agree (3 sons here😊)! I want to know how the mother could allow this and then sleep with her husband after he did this to the boys!! It’s sick!
The mother DEFINITELY knew. There was talk from people that knew them that when they were at their house and the dad disappeared with one of the brothers into a bedroom that you didn't even go down the hallway. Also there's new info that came out saying the prosecutor withheld damning evidence against the father in the trial. Apparently one of the brothers had wrote a letter (3 mths prior to the murders) to his cousin where he mentions the abuse and how he was terrified of his father's retribution if he were to go to the authorities about it. And then another man has come forward alleging their father molested him as well. (From a boy band I believe, as their dad was a big time producer.) I really hope there's an appeal.
She was narcisitic and abusive as well. On all levels, Including sexually. Their parents were 100% more responsible for their fate than the brothers who pulled the trigger.
So appreciate your work!
Thank you for sharing this case. So interesting to see it broken down. It made me so sad all the same. I will never understand how people can be so cruel to each other.
Seeing this brought tears to my eyes. If they were making this up they are superb actors. I'm so sad for what they had to endure as children at the hands of their father no less. Thanks Dr. G!
Thanks for such a deep analysis. Everyone should see it. Justice for Lyle & Erik Menendez!
Thank you, so much, for this video, Dr. G. May I add, so often when this or similar cases are discussed, some people will acknowledge there probably was abuse, however, “they weren’t in danger when they killed [the predator]”. People who say this don’t understand that when you are being abused like this, EVERY moment of EVERY day is threatening. You don’t know when the predator will choose to end your life or how it will be done. I don’t think these boys even thought about what killing their parents would mean. They were looking to end the horrible pain they felt. Going on the ridiculous shopping spree they went on was a celebration - they would no longer have to face their father’s horrible abuse and their mother ignoring what was going on. I don’t excuse what they did, but I do understand it. I also know that there are thousands (maybe millions) of adults in this country who can watch this video and say, “There, but for the grace of God, go I”.
I excuse what they did. Too bad I was not on the jury. I would have said.. Not guilty.
I only discovered this case about a year ago, but I watched their entire testimonies and I've never had even one doubt that they were victims and that they weren't "guilty". It's absolutely horrible that they were found guilty. This case is (still in the present tense) just absolutely heartbreaking.
Justice is about PROOF! They can't proof they were abused, that's the entire point. It's not about feelings and emotions. They killed 2 people and lied about it, that means nobody could believe them a second time. Too little, too late.
Hey, Dr. G! Thank you for this video. It’s so interesting trying to understand their emotions and behaviors. Great analysis!
This was excruciating to watch. Let them out already.
yet someone like casey anthony is still free!
The sad reality is if the Menendez brothers are released after spending 35 years in prison would mostly likely be another form of trauma. There are documented cases of high suicide rates when prisoners are released back into society. My heart just goes out for the brothers, they're dammed if they aren't released and dammed if they are.
Their working on it. But even if released it doesn't take away the trauma of the original abuse, the abuse by law enforcement, the abuse by the prosecutor (over 3 trials) and the abuse by those inside the California DOC. They will need serious assistance to slowly process reintegration. I hope they are released, I've never believed they weren't victims of abuse. Hopefully, they will have a support system if released.
One of the saddest happenings
One of the saddest happenings
I won't lie everytime i watch their trial i'm heartbroken. The abuse that these men suffered was horrendous.
Their abuse was never proven and they have no proof of it either...
@@FragLordwatch the case lil bro
@@sam-mk7uv
No they didn't. And again, what kind of abuse are we talking about. What do you mean with "the abuse".
It was 2 family members, 2 cousins. And their testimony wasn't proof of anything, except some emotional abuse. Apart from that, they didn't see or hear anything...
They were also caught several times trying to convince other friends and family members to lie on the stand... Lil bro
But let's get things straight here... There were no police officers, social workers, teachers, other family members (uncles, aunts, grand parents) at all that came forward. Out of the thousands of people and a 40 years of combined experiences, all they had to show as proof is 2 biased witnesses that didn't see anything... That and 2 pictures that can't be identified of when and who took them. That's the entire problem with this case. There is no proof that conclusive says they are innocent or guilty... It's their words vs their dead parents who can't defend themselves. And since they lied and manipulated so badly after their still heinous crimes, that made everything they said unbelievable. Remember they shot their mom 10 times! And only the last shot was fatal... They killed their parents in their sleep. The entire idea that this would be self defense is utter nonsense and that idea was thrown out by the court and the jury. They planned it weeks in advance, drove 2 hours to buy guns with a fake ID and confirmed many times to eachother to go ahead with it... Lil bro
They had plenty of other avenues to get what they wanted, justice. But they took it in their own hands and then lied about it. Well then you also have to face the consequences of those lies. You can't lie about killing both your parents, then forced to come clean and expect people will believe you a second time... Lil bro
They have 2 cousins that testified for them, but countless of other family members said the exact opposite... There are many more family members, friends and colleagues on the side of the parents than vice versa... Lil Bro
The only thing we know for sure is that they were very strict parents with high demands. Sometimes they did go too far, but by that standard every child in 1940 was abused... Lil bro
Not to mention that these guys were serial fuckups. They robbed their entire neighborhood of family heirlooms and jewelry, when at the same time they got EVERYTHING of their parents... Lil biatch
@@sam-mk7uv Quit liking your own posts lil sis
@@FragLord i’m not liking my own comments 💀 u got sum up ur ass ur so mad. ill reply to ur yap comment after my classes
I went through a very similar situation. I was sexually abused by my biological father and my mother turned a blind eye. When I watched this, it was as if it was I on that stand. I’ve watched a few movies/series about them, but the Netflix one being the most graphic. The things they explained in such detail that happened to them, and the feelings they felt, are how people who have suffered this type of abuse feel. It is accurate to a T.
I always try to keep an open mind because some have lied about their abuse, but I do feel they were abused. Not only that, they are in for life, so why would they need to lie anymore if they had been lying ?
This is amazing. How could anyone not pick up that these boys were abused? And they got tossed into jail for life. This is so sick. On so many levels. You are right, I can see these subtle cues.
Remember when Erik confessed that he knew perfectly how to play the jury... You think sociopaths can't fake emotions? They are compulsive liars
Have you heard their 911 call? Crying and calling for mommy. " mommy, mommy, nooo". Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice... They shot their mom TEN times with a shotgun, buckshot at very close range... And only the last shot was fatal. That meant they emptied their barrels and reloaded next to their dying mother... They shot dad SIX times... The two sons stood over their mother, barely alive with 9 shotgun hits, reloaded and had to shoot the fatal TENTH shot... Abuse or not, that's monstrous. And especially the sexual abuse was never proven and there isn't even 1 testimony that isn't hearsay.
If you leave for 2 hours, come back and then lie and cry on the phone about mommy. Then yeah, it's safe to say they are compulsive sociopaths...
@@FragLord agreed
Even if people pick it up they say nothing…let’s hope they finally are understood believed and freed
@@Laughter17 They are understood very well. Tried and convicted first degree murderers and sociopaths. Pre meditated murder, no evidence of abuse and the many many lies. They are AT LEAST sociopaths. I believe in the justice system. They shot their mom with 10 shotgun shots and only the last one was fatal. It's one fake cry sob story. 2 cousins, that's all they managed to gather. Nobody else corroborates their story and even the confession of the 2 cousins is 1 hearsay and 2 only talks about emotional abuse. They are entitled, bratty, privileged sociopaths that belong in jail for life. Society can't trust them anymore and that is only due to themselves. They murdered and then they lied. Several times. Society can't believe them anymore and that's their own effing fault. Nobody else's.
@@FragLordwhere is the proof that happened in real life
you should examine the questioning just shortly after where you stopped, when lyle is asked if he did anything to his brother and you get both of their body language in one. that part, i don’t know how someone watches that and says these two lied. this case is heartbreaking in my opinion.
yah erik sucked his thumb and cried...very real
At 8:07, he smiled because the lawyer said, “the press could have a break”.
Adore how Dr G analyzes, gives his impressions, and moves on.
No subtle sales pitch.
Fact. Experience.
24K authenticity.
Very interesting. Thx Dr G. You keep raising the bar with your videos.
Thank you Dr G for covering this. I had been watching this with Legal Bytes who has been covering one of the trials from a legal stand point but I found it too triggering to watch when one of their cousins took the stand and had to stop. I fully believe the brothers and my heart feels so heavy for them. I really appreciate your doing this video.
As a survivor of this heinous act I know how shameful you feel like its your fault. Part of the abusers manipulation & degradation.
I just watched the Netflix documentary and I went straight to your channel to see if you made a video sure no surprise you had thanks, dr G
These men were first victims of their parents and then victims of our culture. Times have changed and we have less tolerance for child abuse (although it is still way too common). These men have done plenty of time, they deserve some freedom and normalcy
They were not on trial for child abuse. They were on trial for committing murder as adults which they admitted to.
Child abuse was not tolerated back then either.
There are a multitude of lies and attempted cover ups that really didn’t help the brothers’ case here.
Éxcéllent observations. Please continue with this line of examination and opinion.
They heard their mom told them she hates them since they were little , on top the abuse from their dad . They only know and feel hate , they cant tell the different between love or hate . Its such an emotional Roller coaster they endured since childhood . They becomes like this because of their parents.
It’s like they regress to childhood in places. It breaks my fucking heart.
Especially when Lyle talk about abusing Eric, and says he’s sorry. Eric bites his nails or sucks his thumb or something. It’s like an instant soothing reaction. 😢 it’s probably something they never talked about.
Sexual abuse does cause children’s brains to shrink! Look it up! They regress!
Thanx so much... ❤ the Way You read them ... I feel so sad 😢. We need harsher punishments for those who harm children ⚖️
Thank you for this! I would LOVE to hear more on the Menendez brothers. PLEASE.
as of 2023, there was a habeas corpus filed for the brothers. there is a small amount of hope that someday they will be free. I really hope it happens.
such a horrible case... Thank you for the analysis, it sent shivers down my spine
I'm so glad I ran across this video and I thank you were taking it on. I have beliefs these gentlemen from the beginning. I believe they should have been sent for some serious rehab rather than prison. I was sexy assaulted by a relative at 8. I was fortunate and escaped it but it had had consequences for years. I told an adult, a grandmother, and was told I shouldn't make stories up and I was sent back home cutting my visit short. I can only imagine what frequently assaulted do to ones mind. You get to the point you snap. Their second trial was a sham. 30 years of their lives ruined, not counting the years they spent with their parents through the abuse. This video helped my realize that my instincts were probably right.
If only we, the viewers of this trial, understood then what we understand now about sexual abuse to children. It was so secretive back then we couldn’t fathom a parent would do this. And then for these two young men who had to describe such painful experiences only to be called liars afterwards. I feel so hurtful for them both.
And to do it in front of the world
I couldn’t come out and tell anyone until 32 to my girlfriend. Only her I felt safe to finally speak about what a family had done to me from perhaps toddler age until around 10 years old. I used to drink a lot before then and I would wake up hungover and because I blacked out when drunk would have panic attacks that maybe I told someone what happened to me. Never thinking that the person would’ve actually wanted to help me. I just thought if I said it out loud my life would be over for some reason. Probably because of the threats I held onto as a little kid that kept me from saying anything then. I remember I would have these panic attacks at school that go worse each year as I went onto higher grades as I aged. I’d have this completely irrational thought that what if all the kids at school came to know what happened and again my life would be over.
I will just add to this incase anyone is worried for me. I’m good now. I’ve had therapy. I’m now ok at talking about what happened and I am happy and have wonderful friends and a cute little dog.
There is NO CHANGE in "understanding" back then or present day about child abuse! The problem here is a difference in thought patterns between men and women. Women let child abuse stories cloud their judgement because they personalize the stories, become emotional, etc and subliminally are harder on other women so they mentally place most of the blame on the mother. Men listen to the child abuse stories for legal justification of the actual murder charges the brothers faced for killing their parents as adults and conclude this was a revenge killing by two young adults NOT self-defense against an active attacker. From a legal and FACTUAL basis there neither brothers' testimony provided any legal justification for them killing their mother. The mother was not abusing them as adults, not threatening to kill them, and died next to a stack of college applications she filled out for Erik!
@@cjking4511 I truly wonder why you go out of your way to support abusers. You're probably just like the parents
@@cjking4511 The fact that you can watch their heartbreaking testimonies, learn about the evidence of abuse (including pictures, medical records, etc) and what they family testified about their brutal and abusive parents and feel absolutely nothing really does say alot about you as a person. And this is what disgusts me.
More great content! The meteoric rise of the channel is in full swing and well deserved. Interested in some content on paul Bernardo and karla homolka.
Exactly!!! Go, Dr.G! Whoo!
Thank you so much! That pair would make a great analysis. I'll see what footage I can find.
Thanks Dr. G
This is so good thank you !!!! There’s so much information out there it’s hard to make an informative decision but this is so so helpful ! Thanks
I was fairly young during this trial but I didn't believe the motive was greed. I think the Menendez family's affluence was a big influence in the court of public opinion. It was assumed that the brothers were simply greedy. It is a miscarriage of justice to not consider the affects of severe abuse on these young boys. Premeditated murder is never excusable but I think they should have served time for a lesser crime.
I think they went on a spending spree right after the murders but that doesn't necessarily mean anything
nah it was extremely justifiable in this case
I agree. They've served their time at this point, for sure.
I could watch this for hours! I would love to see a part 2 of the reactions of each brother when the other one is testifying.
The whole thing makes me sick to my stomach! This is so sad to see those two boys had to go this horrible crime by their parents 😢
I can NOT believe these poor poor souls are still locked up. Multiple tragedies in this case, it’s a wonder anyone can have faith in people and justice when this is happening, still.
Poor spoiled brats 😂
@okao08 does daddy play with you also . Its ok you can tell us
@@nightwalker7198 i wasn’t born by then 😂. Did Menendez brothers rape you?
@@okao08what? Because they had money? Money doesn’t mean spoiled brats. Loads of wealthy families are highly dysfunctional and abusive. You think your father abusing you sexually is them spoiling you? wtf is wrong with you
„Poor poor souls” are you kidding me ? They BRUTALLY MURDER their parrents. God, people really dont understand what they did or what?
5:14 is exactly how you know of their truth! The way he naturally tried to protect his body the very second he thought of that memory. FREE THESE SURVIVORS
Thank you for your thoughtful commentary, Dr G!