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

The Los Angeles County district attorney has asked the California parole board to deny Charles Manson follower Susan Atkins' request for compassionate release from prison. Atkins, who was convicted of seven 1969 murders, is terminally ill with brain cancer. The DA noted that Atkins stabbed pregnant actress Sharon Tate, tasted her blood, and used it to write the word "Pig" on the victim's door during a murderous Manson Family rampage.

The state has spent more than $1.4 million on medical care and security since Atkins was diagnosed in March, and she has only months to live, according to officials. Atkins, 60, has been in prison 37 years—longer than any other female inmate in California. The board, which has received close to 100 letters opposing her release, meets today. (More Charles Manson stories.)