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John Waters pleads for Manson follower Leslie Van Houten's parole
Director John Waters is in favor of the parole of his friend Leslie Van Houten, one of Charles Manson's followers, sentenced to death (later reduced to life in prison) for her part in the Manson Family's 1969 murder spree.Up for parole for the 17th time, Van Houten, now 60, is described by supporters and prison staff as a model prisoner. She is a college tutor and is studying for a master's degree in humanities. In 40 years, she has never had an infraction on her prison record.
Waters became friends with Van Houten over a span of 28 years. He describes her as a 17-year-old hippie who "met one of the most dangerous madmen in history."
He says she feels horror and complete shame and has spend 40 years becoming the person she would have become if she had not met Manson.
"I understand the victims' outrage," he tells ABC News. "... I taught in prison. I believe people can get better. ...
"I want to at least have a chance to stick up for my friend. ... I understand it's not a popular position but I hope people will consider it."
Debra Tate, the sister of slain actress Sharon Tate, who was murdered by the Manson Family, is still working to keep Manson and his followers from parole. "Is a tiger dangerous if it gets out of its cage?" she asks.
Listen to Waters' argument in the clip below. What do you think? Should Van Houten be paroled?
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I think she should be let out. She's paid her debt to society.
NO WAY SHOULD SHE EVER BE LET OUT OF PRISON. SHE CHOSE HER LIFE AND SHE IS LIVING IT WHERE SHE BELONGS FOR THE REST OF HER NATURAL LIFE.
I don't think it ultimately matters what "kind of a person" she is now. If prison were only about rehabilitation, I would say it does, but it's not about rehabilitation-- it's about justice. There are a number of people who have no chance to "become the people they would have been" in part because of Leslie Van Houten.
Who does John Waters think he's kidding? Charles Manson "one of the most dangeous madmen in history"? I'm no admirer of Manson (unlike Waters, who lionized Tex Watson, who many claim was Manson equal inside the "Garbage People" that the media decided to call "The Family"), but who after seriously researching the case can buy Vincent Bugliosi's "Helter Skelter" scenario? Bugliosi, that admirer of the Warren Commission and the "magic bullet" theory of JFK's assassination, cooked up the outlandish scenario to nail Manson and these acid-addled murderers. Ask John Waters why it is that Tex Watson -- the leader during both murders and who was involved with other murders more directly linkable to Manson -- was tried seperately. Do you think the "he was fighting extradition from Texas" is the real reason he was not there in the 1971 trial? Or because Bugliosi, facing dubious prospects of convicting Manson (who committed none of the Tate-LaBianca killings) of first degree murder, HAD to keep Watson away. The "Helter Skelter" scenario is pure hokum, like the magic bullet theory Bugliosi defends. See my article "Was Charles Manson Framed." http://www.tiny9.com/u/9057
She should have been executed 40 years ago, as should Manson and the others. Rot in hell, Leslie!
uh, that would be a definite NO, mr. water. she was a sick sociopath then, and she's one now. she does NOT believe she murdered anyone. no to parole no and forever
She has paid and so has Charlie who never killed anyone nor ordered a death.
Enough is enough. Time to stop pretending this is the worst crime of the century . We know you media people are making millions for your OWNERS every year off the blood of the victims and the sick kids that did it. Tex is the only one I say should never get out.
I don't think she should ever be let out of jail just because she feels horror now! Many lives will never be because of her and her troup! If we still believe in a justice system we cannot let the lion out of her cage. She belongs in prison where she should die ! No way would it be right or fair for all the victims that she is let out of prison because she had done a turn around now. too bad. Should have thought of that back when!!!! right Leslie
I think she does know she took part in murder and is truly sorry. she was only 17 and i don't think she'll cause any trouble if let out now.
I understand her argument for wanting parole, but I think she should remain in prison. I don't think there is a circumstance which would cause me to change my mind. There is no redemption for her on this Earth.