The Menendez brothers are leading prison reform with a Norwegian-inspired project

LOS ANGELES – Nearly thirty 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 the natural environment and community integration, aligns with Norway’s humane prison model, which is known for promoting successful rehabilitation.

Why Norway’s prison model is inspiring change in California

The Norwegian system focuses on treating prisoners humanely and offers programs that reflect society to help prisoners return to life outside.

The country’s recidivism rate, among the lowest in the world, saw only 16% of former prisoners reoffend within two years, compared to the US rate of 66% within three years. Norway’s prisons provide outdoor spaces, voting rights and health services comparable to those in the community, with the aim of preparing prisoners for life outside prison.

What is the Menendez Brothers’ Green Space Project?

The Green Space project at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility, started in 2018 by Lyle Menendez, aims to replace grim prison grounds with park-like environments.

Erik Menendez leads the mural work, painting scenes of San Diego landmarks. The project’s design includes open-air classrooms and group meeting areas, turning the garden into a rehabilitation environment.

Could California implement more humane prison reforms?

The California Department of Corrections is testing similar initiatives under the “California Model,” designed to reduce recidivism by creating a rehabilitative environment.

Pennsylvania has also implemented Scandinavian-inspired prison reforms, recognizing the potential benefits of humane confinement in reducing inmate violence and improving staff health.

The Source

This article is based on reporting from the Associated Press, which reports on the Menendez brothers’ work to implement Norway’s Principles of Prison Reform in California. Additional insights from Norway’s incarceration model come from AP interviews with prison reform experts.