A judge resentenced Erik and Lyle Menendez to a term of 50 years to life in prison for the 1989 murders of their parents, ruling Tuesday the brothers will be eligible for parole. The brothers have been serving life without parole for the killings.

A California judge ruled Tuesday that Erik and Lyle Menendez can be resentenced, clearing the way for the siblings to receive a lesser penalty for the 1989 shotgun murder of their parents.

A shock twist in the case of convicted killers Lyle and Erik Menendez was announced by Los Angeles prosecutors last night (13 May) amid the brothers' bid for resentencing - after which they issued an emotional statement.

A judge on Tuesday re-sentenced Erik and Lyle Menendez to 50 years to life for the 1989 shotgun killings of their parents in Beverly Hills, making them eligible for parole after serving nearly 35 years.

Due to changes in California law, the Menendez brothers, who are now in their 50s, are eligible to apply for parole

On the first day of Erik and Lyle Menendez 's resentencing hearing Tuesday, their cousins, a former judge and a former fellow inmate took to the witness stand to testify that the brothers were not only rehabilitated but helped others.