Manson family killer denied 'compassionate release' for cancer
Wed Jul 16, 1:16 AM ET
A California parole board Tuesday denied a "compassionate release" for former Charles Manson family member Susan Atkins, who after 37 years in jail for multiple murder is dying from terminal cancer, at 60 years of age.
The 12-member California Board of Parole Hearings listened to arguments for and against Atkins' release, and issued its decision without explanation in a court document.
Los Angeles Country District Attorney Steve Cooley argued Monday in a letter to parole board chairman James Davis that Atkins, who is reportedly dying from brain cancer, should not be granted compassionate release.
Atkins was found guilty of taking part in the brutal murders of actress Sharon Tate -- heavily pregnant with film-maker Roman Polanski's child -- and six other people during the Manson followers' deranged 1969 killing spree.
Cooley said Atkins -- who admitted slitting Tate's throat even as Tate begged her to let her unborn baby live -- should stay in prison.
"To grant (Atkins') release would be an affront to the people of this state, the California criminal justice system and the next of kin of many murder victims," Cooley said.
"Her horrific crimes alone warrant a denial of her request," he said, adding that Atkins had "failed to demonstrate genuine remorse and understanding of the gravity of her crimes."
Cooley said that Atkins, whose bid for freedom had been approved by the prison where she is being held, could receive "appropriate, dignified and compassionate medical care" within the California prison system.
In May, doctors reportedly predicted Atkins had six months to live.
Manson, 73, Atkins and other followers of his were initially given the death penalty for the murders. But the sentences were commuted to life in prison after the US Supreme Court established new requirements for capital cases.
The Source