California Gov. Gavin Newsom Accepts Release of Charles Manson Follower Leslie Van Houten After 53 Years in Prison

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has announced that he will not seek to block parole for Leslie Van Houten, a follower of Charles Manson who has served 53 years in prison for her involvement in two infamous murders. This decision paves the way for Van Houten’s release, as her parole had been blocked three times before by Newsom’s office.

In a brief statement, the governor’s office expressed disappointment and stated that an appeal to the state Supreme Court was unlikely to succeed. The statement also acknowledged the lasting impact of the Manson cult’s brutal killings on the victims’ families, even after more than 50 years.

Van Houten, who is now in her 70s, is serving a life sentence for her role in the 1969 murders of Leno LaBianca, a grocer in Los Angeles, and his wife, Rosemary. Her release could occur in approximately two weeks, pending a review of her record by the parole board and the processing of necessary paperwork at the California Institution for Women in Corona.

Despite being recommended for parole five times since 2016, Van Houten’s release had been rejected by both Newsom and former Gov. Jerry Brown. However, a state appeals court ruled in May that she should be released, citing her “extraordinary rehabilitative efforts, insight, remorse, realistic parole plans, support from family and friends,” and positive behavior reports while in prison.

Van Houten’s attorney, Nancy Tetreault, expressed her client’s joy and gratitude at the court’s decision. Tetreault emphasized that Van Houten is not the same person she was when she committed the murders and highlighted her need to learn basic life skills after spending 53 years in prison.

Following her release, Van Houten will spend approximately a year in a halfway house, where she will learn essential skills such as grocery shopping and using a debit card. Tetreault emphasized the significant adjustments Van Houten will need to make, given her long absence from society and technological advancements.

The decision to release Van Houten has sparked debate and controversy, as many still remember the heinous crimes committed by the Manson cult. However, the court’s ruling and Newsom’s decision not to appeal have opened the door for Van Houten’s eventual release and reintegration into society.

1) What factors did the parole board consider when determining that Leslie Van Houten’s release would not pose an unreasonable risk to public safety?

Acknowledged the difficult and sensitive nature of the case. They also stated that after considering all factors, including Van Houten’s age at the time of the crimes and her behavior in prison, it was determined that her release on parole would not pose an unreasonable risk to public safety.

Van Houten was 19 years old when she participated in the brutal murders of Leno and Rosemary LaBianca in 1969. She was found guilty of stabbing Rosemary LaBianca to death and was originally sentenced to death, which was later commuted to life in prison after the death penalty was abolished in California.

Over the years, Van Houten has expressed remorse for her actions and has participated in various rehabilitation programs. She has also been described as a model prisoner, with no incidents of violence or disciplinary actions during her time behind bars.

However, the decision to release Van Houten is not without controversy. Many argue that the nature of her crimes and her involvement in the Manson cult should disqualify her from ever being granted parole. The families of the victims, as well as prosecutors, have consistently fought against her release, arguing that she has not taken full responsibility for her actions and continues to pose a risk to society.

The parole board will now review the case and make a final determination on whether to grant Van Houten’s release. If approved, she would be the third member of the Manson family to be released from prison, following the release of Bruce Davis and Patricia Krenwinkel.

The decision by Governor Newsom to not block Van Houten’s parole has reignited the debate surrounding rehabilitation, redemption, and the responsibility of the criminal justice system. While some believe in second chances and the possibility of rehabilitation, others argue that certain crimes warrant lifelong incarceration.

Regardless of the final outcome, the release of Leslie Van Houten will undoubtedly be met with strong emotions and renewed discussions about the bounds of forgiveness and the consequences of past actions.