Manson Follower Requests Release From Prison Amid Coronavirus Fears

Former Charles Manson follower, Leslie Van Houten, 70, is seeking release from prison amid fears of the coronavirus, according to a report. Her attorney requested bail or release of his client on Monday from California’s 2nd District Court of Appeal upon learning that an inmate in Van Houten's housing unit at the California Institution for Women in Chino tested positive for COVID-19.

Rich Pfeiffer previously submitted a motion to the state appeals court in February, expressing concerns that Van Houten was considered high risk due to her age, but the court did not act, reported Los Angeles Daily News.

“Today I learned that an inmate in Ms. Van Houten’s housing unit tested positive for COVID 19 and she is presently being quarantined. Due to her advanced age, this puts Ms. Van Houten at a high risk," Pfeiffer said. "Ms. Van Houten is not opposed to home confinement … and she can arrange for all costs outside of prison."

Van Houten participated in the 1969 killings of Leno LaBianca and his wife Rosemary a day after other so-called "Manson family" members murdered pregnant actress Sharon Tate and four others in 1969. She was the youngest Manson follower to take part in the killings after she joined the cult in the 1960s.

Van Houten was sentenced to life in prison and has been denied parole three times. In overruling a recommendation for parole last year, California Gov. Gavin Newsom expressed concern that she could still pose a threat to society.

"While I commend Ms. Van Houten for her efforts at rehabilitation and acknowledge her youth at the time of the crimes, I am concerned about her role in these killings and her potential for future violence," Newsom said. "Ms. Van Houten was an eager participant in the killing of the LaBiancas and played a significant role."

Related stories:

• Charles Manson's Grandson Tells All
• Key Dates in Charles Manson's Life