Leslie Van Houten participated in the 1969 Manson family murders that left Leno and Rosemary LaBianca dead in their Los Felos home. After more than 50 years in prison, she's now one step closer to freedom.
Van Houten's attorney assured the public they have nothing to worry about upon her release, and longtime AP journalist Linda Deutsch agrees.
She told KNX News, "I started visiting [Van Houten] about five years ago when I retired. We had many visits, and she is the most rehabilitated prisoner you could ever find."
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The LaBianca murders occurred one day after a group of Manson followers killed five others, including actress Sharon Tate, but Van Houten did not participate in those killings.
Deutsch said because Van Houten was only involved in the LaBianca murders, and "there has always been some question about what her role was," she is "the least culpable" of those involved.
Deutsch called the former Manson follower bright and accomplished, referring to Van Houten's active participation in the rehabilitation process for herself and fellow inmates.
"She got two college degrees while in prison," and "she has been an inspiration for other prisoners, helping them and their adjustment to what's facing them," Deutsch said.
Deutsch is not alone; as her former employer reported, a state appeals court ruled in May that Van Houten should be released, noting "extraordinary rehabilitative efforts, insight, remorse, realistic parole plans, support from family and friends."
In Deutsch's eyes, Van Houten matured from a "troubled" 19-year-old girl into a compassionate, remorseful 73-year-old woman and is "delighted" to hear she will likely be paroled.
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