Free Leslie Van Houten

I originally became interested in Van Houten when writing a research paper. As a result I recieve correspondence from Chris Simmons on behalf of the Tate Family Legacy campaign to keep the offenders incarcerated. I do however support Van Houten's right to parole and sent this email back to Chris when he emailed me to oppose her parole at the hearing set for June 5th 2013.

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[FONT=&quot]I’d be disappointed if parole was opposed and denied this time. Her involvement – however understandably abhorrent to the family of or those connected to the victim – in no way justifies the ”throw away the key mentality” that does not evaluate the actions and the psychological state of the participant at the time, or the remorse and rehabilitation of the offender. In the case of Van Houten, I think a greater respect for the campaign against the others would be gained by acknowledging that the difference in the nature of her involvement, combined with 40 plus years of incarceration, means it is time for a controlled release programme. [/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]I am in no way seeking to offend you – merely to put my view. I do so with great respect for you and your views. [/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]I support a justice system – where punishment and rehabilitation sit side by side – not where retribution seems the only possible explanation. [/FONT]

 

I would like to know why you are so adamant about her release? Is she a friend?, relative?, or just someone you feel is unjustly incarcerated.

 

I'm not sure that was directed to me or not?

If it was - I am neither a friend, relative or someone who feels she is "unjustly" incarcerated. I just feel that on the case facts and circumstances, her having been incarcerated for so long and on her record and development whilst incarcerated - it is time to give her a very late second chance.
Please - I know the gut response is "what about the victims second chance" - but that should not be the issue in a system that has allowed for parole.