The Death Row Records founder, currently serving time at San Diego’s RJ Donovan Correctional Facility, spoke exclusively to TMZ Live Friday, saying Erik’s hearing was a sham from the start.
According to Suge, the Parole Board highlighted every past mistake Erik made — sneaking in a cellphone, making illicit calls, hustling drugs, and even pulling off tax fraud — while completely ignoring his rehabilitative progress.
“They don’t give you credit for trying to better yourself,” Suge said. “It’s designed for you to fail.”
Erik Menendez Denied Freedom
Earlier this month, Erik Menendez — serving a life sentence alongside brother Lyle for the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez — was denied parole after a hearing that focused heavily on his disciplinary record behind bars.
Supporters say Erik has worked to reform himself during his decades in prison, engaging in educational programs and mentoring younger inmates. But Suge claims the system never gave him a fair shake.
“The whole vibe in here is poison,” he explained. “Mistreatment, set-ups … that’s just how it goes. Erik never had a chance.”
Lyle Could Be Next
Suge also warned that Erik’s older brother, Lyle Menendez, will likely face the same fate when his parole hearing comes up.
“They’re not gonna let him out either,” Suge predicted. “They’ll drag him through the mud with the same stuff.”
The Menendez brothers, now in their 50s, have spent more than three decades behind bars, but public opinion around their case has shifted in recent years — especially with documentaries and Netflix specials revisiting the story. Many younger viewers believe the brothers were victims of years of abuse before the killings, sparking renewed calls for mercy.
Suge Knight: Prison Is “Set Up to Fail”
Knight, who’s been outspoken even from prison, says the system is broken from top to bottom.
While Erik’s mistakes were real, Suge believes the board’s refusal to acknowledge his rehabilitation efforts is proof that parole isn’t about second chances — it’s about keeping men locked away.
“If you slip once, they’ll never let you forget it,” Suge told TMZ Live.
⚖️ Your Take: Do you think Erik and Lyle Menendez deserve a second chance after 30+ years? Or is justice already served? Drop your thoughts below.
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