After spending five decades behind bars, a former Charles Manson follower, Leslie Van Houten, who was convicted of killing two people, is set to be released at the age of 73. Van Houten, who was 19 when she participated in the cult’s murderous activities and assisted in the killings of Leno LaBianca and his wife Rosemary in 1969, will soon be paroled, as confirmed by her lawyer Nancy Tetreault.
Despite California Governor Gavin Newsom’s previous opposition to her release, he has decided not to intervene this time, allowing Van Houten to be freed in the coming weeks. The governor’s office indicated that it is unlikely for the state Supreme Court to overturn the decision to grant Van Houten parole.
Release Recommended After Decades
More than 50 years after the brutal Manson cult murders, the impact is still felt by the victims’ families, as expressed by Governor Newsom. Despite rejecting five previous parole recommendations since 2016, the recent ruling by the state appeals court in favor of Van Houten’s release has changed her fate.
The court highlighted Van Houten’s remarkable efforts towards rehabilitation, her remorse, realistic parole plans, and positive behavior reports during her time in prison as factors in their decision. Her lawyer, Nancy Tetreault, mentioned that Van Houten is grateful for the recognition of her transformation since the time of the murders.
Upcoming Challenges and Reactions
Following her potential release in two weeks, Van Houten will undergo a transitional period in a halfway house to learn essential life skills in today’s technologically advanced world. However, the news of her impending freedom has reignited trauma for the families of the victims.
Cory LaBianca, the daughter of Leno LaBianca, expressed her family’s heartbreak over the years spent without her father and stepmother, emphasizing the void it has created for generations who never had the chance to know them.
Tragic Past and Legal Proceedings
Van Houten’s involvement in the brutal stabbing of the LaBiancas, where she described her actions in detail, led to her conviction in 1971 and subsequent retrial in 1978, resulting in a life sentence. Charles Manson, the mastermind behind the cult’s crimes, passed away in 2017 from natural causes while serving his sentence.
As the legal process unfolds, the impact of Van Houten’s release continues to evoke mixed emotions and reflections on the tragic events that transpired over five decades ago.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Leslie Van Houten, Manson Family Killer, To Be Released On Parole After Newsom Drops Challenge
Leslie Van Houten, a former member of the infamous Manson Family cult, is set to be released on parole after California Governor Gavin Newsom decided to drop his challenge against her release. Van Houten, now 71 years old, has been serving a life sentence for her involvement in the gruesome murders orchestrated by cult leader Charles Manson in 1969.
The Manson Family Murders
One of the most notorious crimes in American history, the Manson Family murders shocked the nation in 1969. Charles Manson, a charismatic yet deranged cult leader, convinced his followers to carry out a series of brutal killings in an attempt to start a race war. Among the victims was actress Sharon Tate, who was eight months pregnant at the time of her death.
Leslie Van Houten’s Involvement
Leslie Van Houten was just 19 years old when she participated in the murders of Leno and Rosemary LaBianca, a wealthy couple who were brutally killed in their home. Van Houten, along with several other members of the Manson Family, carried out the killings under Manson’s orders. She was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison.
Parole Hearings and Legal Battles
Over the years, Van Houten has appeared before the California parole board numerous times in an attempt to gain her freedom. Despite expressing remorse for her actions and demonstrating good behavior in prison, her requests for parole have been repeatedly denied. Governor Newsom had also previously overturned the parole board’s decision to release Van Houten.
Newsom’s Change of Heart
In a surprising turn of events, Governor Newsom recently decided not to challenge the latest decision by the parole board to release Van Houten. This decision paves the way for her eventual release from prison, marking a significant milestone in her decades-long battle for freedom.
Victims’ Families and Public Reaction
The news of Van Houten’s impending release has sparked mixed reactions from the public and the families of the Manson Family murder victims. Some believe that Van Houten has served her time and deserves a second chance at life outside of prison, while others argue that she should remain behind bars for her part in the heinous crimes.
Final Thoughts
As Leslie Van Houten prepares to transition back into society after spending over five decades in prison, her case continues to raise difficult questions about rehabilitation, forgiveness, and justice. While some may never be able to forgive her for her role in the Manson Family murders, others believe in the possibility of redemption and second chances.
| Leslie Van Houten | Life Sentence | Parole |
|---|---|---|
| Convicted | 1969 | 2021 |
