Menendez brothers lead prison reform with Norway-inspired project
LA DA recommends resentencing for Menendez brothers
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon announced Thursday that he is recommending that the Menendez brothers be re-sentenced for the 1989 murder of their parents. LiveNOW's Andrew Craft breaks it all down with legal affairs journalist Meghann Cuniff, who was in the room during the the announcement.
LOS ANGELES - Nearly 30 years after their conviction, Erik and Lyle Menendez are working to transform their San Diego prison, inspired by Norway's progressive approach to incarceration.
Their Green Space project, which emphasizes natural surroundings and community integration, aligns with Norway's humane prison model, known for fostering successful rehabilitation.
Why Norway’s prison model is inspiring change in California
Norway’s system focuses on treating prisoners humanely, offering programs that mirror society to help inmates transition back into life outside.
The country’s recidivism rate, among the world’s lowest, saw only 16% of former inmates reoffend within two years, compared to the U.S.’s rate of 66% within three years. Norway’s prisons offer outdoor spaces, voting rights, and health services similar to those available in the community, aiming to prepare inmates for life beyond prison.
What is the Menendez brothers’ Green Space project?
Started in 2018 by Lyle Menendez, the Green Space project at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility aims to replace stark prison yards with park-like environments.
Erik Menendez leads the mural work, painting scenes of San Diego landmarks. The project’s design will include outdoor classrooms and group meeting spaces, making the yard a rehabilitative environment.
Could California adopt more humane prison reforms?
California’s Department of Corrections is trialing similar initiatives under its "California Model," designed to reduce recidivism by providing a rehabilitative atmosphere.
Pennsylvania has also piloted Nordic-inspired prison reforms, recognizing the potential benefits of humane incarceration in reducing inmate violence and improving staff health.