California Gov. Gavin Newsome Blocks Manson Follower’s Parole

Charles Manson follower Leslie Van Houten has once again had her parole blocked by a California governor.

After being incarcerated for almost five decades, a California panel recommended parole for Van Houten in July. Governor Gavin Newsom then reversed it. In his decision, he stated that Van Housen is a continued danger to society if she is released from prison.

Rich Pfeiffer, Van Houten’s attorney, said they will appeal Newsom’s reversal.

“This reversal will demonstrate to the courts that there is no way Newsom will let her out,” he said. “So they have to enforce the law, or it will never be enforced.”

Pfeiffer had previously requested Van Houten be released in May due to the coronavirus pandemic. His request was denied.

She is currently serving out a life sentence for her part in helping Manson, and his other followers kill Los Angeles grocer Leno LaBianca and his wife in August of 1969. Along with other cult members, she stabbed the couple and smeared their blood all over the walls. Van Houten was only 19-years-old at the time of the murder.