In an unexpected and shocking twist, Kim Kardashian, the reality television superstar and social media obsessive, has voiced her support for the Menendez brothers, Lyle and Erik, who were arrested in 1989 for murdering their parents in Beverly Hills. Kardashian’s position has sparked debates and spirited arguments on social media as well as the law fraternity.
Recently, in one of the most watched interactive programs, an ‘Instagram Live’ activity hosted by Kardashian, she noted the need for changed attitudes towards criminal justice and various cases accompanied by, for instance, the Menendez brothers. “Just punishment is only one part of it. The reasons behind such unfortunate incidents need to be understood too.” Kardashian said. “Lyle and Erik have already served more than 30 years in prison. It is perhaps time to consider their cases differently, more humanely.”
The Mendez case has always been a topic of controversy. It has witnessed media hype with its own political health, aspects of wealth, familial force and debates concerning justice. Some come out in support of granting the brothers leniency due to the reasons of insanity and feelings of guilt by the brothers, some others put forth the counter argument that their deeds were extremely shameful and thus they cannot be let out.
Kardashian’s endorsement has generated excitement and drawn new perspectives to the case. According to the scholars, her active presence can change the sentiment of the people and persuade them to review the penalties awarded to the two brothers. ‘Individuals like Kim Kardashian possess the ability to raise awareness around key issues and change the trajectory of any debate folate to legislation‘, elaborated Dr. Laura Thompson, a criminal justice instructor based in UCLA. “Something like hers could help reach the issue of employing adequate punishment for those criminals. In fact, the chances are that such conversations would be wider in relation to what the existing punishment should achieve”.
At the same time, however, the call for their release has also received very considerable criticism. Objections are made that doing so distorts the seriousness of the crime and promotes a cause for the release of the Menendez brothers. “It is equally important, as much as justice discourse encourages, that the individuals who need always be brought to the table and the actions for example of the Menendez brothers should be put into perspective”, said Marcus Riley, a victims’ advocate. “Freeing them may be the very opposite of creating the sense of loss that they have inflicted upon their family.’’
In this case, Kardashian explained that this is the reason why her position should not be seen as an endorsement of violence, but rather the opposite of cause based understanding of the systemic change that she promotes. “It’s not about justifying what happened, but rather about trying to find a fairer and more humane solution to the problem of punishment,” she said.
As the debate continues, the Menendez brothers remain incarcerated, with no immediate changes to their sentences on the horizon. Nonetheless, Kardashian’s involvement has undoubtedly added a new dimension to the ongoing discussion surrounding their case and the broader implications for criminal justice reform.
