A Surprising Advocate: Judge Jonathan T. Colby’s Journey with the Menendez Brothers
In a remarkable twist of fate, Jonathan T. Colby, a retired judge known for his tough stance on crime, has emerged as an unexpected advocate for Erik and Lyle Menendez, the brothers who gained notoriety for the brutal murders of their parents over three decades ago. This shift in perspective stems from an unlikely source: Colby’s deep affection for his golden retrievers.
A Canine Connection
Colby, who served as a criminal court judge in Miami, has dedicated the last ten years to visiting the Menendez brothers in prison. His visits aren’t just to offer support; they’re part of a unique outreach program called Love on a Leash. This initiative uses the therapeutic presence of dogs to create emotional connections and promote healing—transformational elements particularly valuable in an environment like prison.
During these visits, Colby brought his beloved pets along, and the impact was profound. For instance, when he visited Sirhan Sirhan, a notorious inmate serving life for the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy, the interaction with his golden retriever Grace brought the aging convict to tears. Such poignant moments underline the powerful effect of animal companionship, especially in stark prison settings.
Discovering Humanity Within Inmates
While many might regard the Menendez brothers strictly through the lens of their crimes, Colby’s consistent engagement revealed a different side. Other inmates have praised Erik and Lyle for their artistic contributions to prison life, particularly through the stunning murals they painted around the yard. These murals serve dual purposes: honoring veterans and bringing a taste of creativity into a grim environment.
Among the murals, one stands out—a depiction of the Coronado dog beach in San Diego, where dogs frolic in the waves. The brothers expressed their sadness at never being able to visit the beach themselves, so they created a version of it within the confines of their prison walls. Their artistry not only beautifies the surroundings but also fosters a sense of community and emotional expression among the inmates.
Reevaluating Justice and Rehabilitation
At a recent resentencing hearing, Colby testified in favor of the Menendez brothers, advocating for their case to be reexamined. He was joined by family members who sought to highlight new evidence suggesting the brothers had suffered severe trauma and abuse prior to their infamous actions.
The court had previously sentenced them to life in prison without the possibility of parole due to the cold-blooded nature of their crimes. However, Colby’s perspective has shifted significantly over time. He has witnessed the brothers engage in mentoring programs, offering support to younger inmates and caring for the elderly, challenging the conventional notion of what rehabilitation looks like in such a harsh environment.
Colby recalls his astonishment at their contributions—promoting education, peace, and initiatives that help reform the prison culture itself. His evolving view raises critical questions about the purpose of incarceration: Is it solely to keep society safe, or should it also foster the possibility of rehabilitation?
The Reluctance of the Legal System
Despite the strong case for their reform, Colby faces substantial resistance from the legal system. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman vehemently opposes any change in sentence, arguing that the Menendez brothers have never fully acknowledged their culpability for the brutal murders of their parents. The narrative centers around their horrific acts—the shooting of José and Kitty Menendez—a point that remains a sticking issue in discussions about their potential release.
A Broader Impact
Colby’s advocacy does not stop with the Menendez brothers. His interactions extend to various notorious figures in the criminal justice system, influenced by the connections he facilitates through his therapy dogs. His experiences range from visiting notorious convicted individuals to providing emotional support in prisons. Each encounter significantly shapes his understanding of criminal behavior and the human capacity for change.
His sister, Jamie Colby, a former Fox News Channel anchor, acknowledges this unique transformation. She notes that while her brother has seen the darkest sides of humanity, he spotted something redeemable in the Menendez brothers that differentiates them in his mind from others he has encountered.
Through this unexpected partnership between a former tough judge and two infamous criminals, a narrative begins to emerge that challenges perceptions about justice, rehabilitation, and the power of compassion—all sparked by the simple yet profound act of bringing dogs into a prison setting.
