Resentencing of Freeman Brothers: A Chance at Parole after Three Decades

Background of the Freeman Brothers' Case

Bryan and David Freeman, two Pennsylvania brothers who were sentenced to life for the slayings of their parents and younger brother nearly three decades ago, have been resentenced to terms that may offer them a chance at parole. The resentencing comes after a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling barring life without parole terms for juveniles. The brothers were affiliated with the white supremacist skinhead movement at the time of the slayings.

Details of the Resentencing

The resentencing hearing revisited the heinous crime in excruciating detail. Bryan and David Freeman, who murdered their family nearly 30 years ago, have been resentenced to terms of 60 years to life. They may become eligible for parole in 31 years, when Bryan will be 77 and David will be 76. The crime occurred in 1995, and the brothers, who were 17 and 16 at the time, were part of the white supremacist skinhead movement.

Arguments and Testimonies

During the hearing, Bryan expressed remorse and took responsibility for the crime, citing his religious faith as a source of hope for forgiveness. David's attorney, on the other hand, argued that his client was acting under his brother's orders. The defense psychiatrist testified about troubling circumstances during their upbringing that contributed to their drinking and drug problems, while a prosecutor's psychiatrist suggested that the brothers were minimizing their culpidity.

Bryan and David's Statements

The brothers tearfully expressed remorse and were forgiven by some relatives, while others were disappointed with the lengthy sentence. Despite the general facts of the case being undisputed, David's attorney argued that his client was acting on his brother's orders when he went upstairs to kill their father and younger brother. Bryan's history of being sexually molested and the impact it had on his life were also discussed.

Question of Reformation

Concerns were raised about Bryan's reformation as he continues to distance himself from the killings and has a tendency to minimize and avoid responsibility. However, character witnesses and Bryan's lawyer testified to his exemplary behavior in prison and his change.

Impact of Court Rulings

The resentencing hearing was the result of a series of federal and state court rulings involving juveniles sentenced to life in prison without parole. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled in 2013 that they were not entitled to resentencing, but the U.S. Supreme Court later declared that the Miller ruling should apply retroactively, giving them a chance, although not guaranteed, to one day get out of prison.

Conclusion

Both brothers have served just under three decades in prison and would be in their 70s before they would be eligible for parole. The Freeman brothers' case serves as a stark reminder of the long-term implications of juvenile sentencing, and the ongoing debate over the fairness and effectiveness of life sentences for juvenile offenders.