Leslie Van Houten Inches Towards Freedom as Manson Follower

California Governor Gavin Newsom has decided not to block the parole of Leslie Van Houten, a follower of cult leader Charles Manson, who has served 53 years in prison for her involvement in two infamous murders. Van Houten, now in her 70s, could be released in about two weeks after the parole board reviews her record and processes paperwork for her release. Despite being recommended for parole five times since 2016, previous governors rejected the recommendations. However, a state appeals court ruled in May that Van Houten should be released, citing her rehabilitative efforts, remorse, and support from family and friends. After her release, Van Houten will spend about a year in a halfway house to learn basic life skills.