Snappy newsletters. Simple Facebook sharing. Spirited comments. Sweet features are waiting… GET THEM NOW!

Manson Family Member Pleads for Release

Dying killer seeks mercy after almost 40 years behind bars

By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff

Posted Jun 14, 2008 8:24 AM CDT
Email

(Newser) – A member of Charles Manson's "family" of killers is asking for compassionate release after 37 years in jail, the Los Angeles Times reports. Susan Atkins, who stabbed Sharon Tate to death while the 8-months-pregnant actress begged for mercy—and then used her blood to write "PIG" on the front door—is dying of brain cancer and wishes to spend the few months she has left as a free woman.

Relatives of the Manson victims are firmly opposed to her release. The prosecutor who pushed for her to get the death penaIty, however, has no objection. "She has paid substantially, though not completely, for her horrendous crimes," he said. Atkins' husband, an attorney who married her 21 years ago, said her condition was so poor she would be unlikely to leave the hospital even if she was freed.

Susan Atkins, at left, returns to court with other Charles Manson co-defendants in this March 29, 1971 photo.
Susan Atkins, at left, returns to court with other Charles Manson co-defendants in this March 29, 1971 photo.   (Associated Press)
Susan Atkins, the former Charles Manson follower who confessed to killing pregnant actress Sharon Tate during a murderous rampage in 1969, is seen in this 1969 file photo.
Susan Atkins, the former Charles Manson follower who confessed to killing pregnant actress Sharon Tate during a murderous rampage in 1969, is seen in this 1969 file photo.   (AP Photo)
Sharon Tate, murdered by Susan Atkins during the Manson family's 1969 rampage, appears in this file photo. Tate's only surviving relative is firmly opposed to Atkins' release on compassionate grounds.
Sharon Tate, murdered by Susan Atkins during the Manson family's 1969 rampage, appears in this file photo. Tate's only surviving relative is firmly opposed to Atkins' release on compassionate grounds.   (Archive Photos)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
To report an error on this story, notify our editors.
A snapshot of the day's best news stories.
 
COMMENTS
Be the first to comment on this story.

California's longest-serving female inmate seeks release
CNN

Van Houten denied parole for 14th time
CNN

 
murder • Charles Manson • Sharon Tate • Manson Family

More Newser Stories

Manson 'Harem' Angles for Freedom

DA to Prison Board: Don't Free Ailing Manson Killer

Manson Body Hunt a Bust

Sharon Tate's 'Engagement Ring' Up for Auction

Charles Manson's Right-Hand Man Seeks Parole
NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS
Other Sites We Like:   24/7 Wall St.   |   Betty Confidential   |   BuzzFeed   |   Cracked   |   Fark   |   Timelines   |   The Frisky   |   Geek Sugar   |   NewsOne