The California parole board recently recommended the release of one of Charles Manson’s followers, Bobby Beausoleil, who has served almost 50 years and been denied for parole 18 prior times.
In 1969, Beausoleil was convicted of killing musician Gary Hinman. According to testimony, Hinman was tortured for three days. Beausoleil’s original death sentence was reduced to life in prison by an appeals court in 1973, The Associated Press reports.
Beausoleil is now 71 years old and serving his time at California Medical Center. The California parole board found him suitable for parole, but Governor Newsom will have the final word. Inmates serving a life sentence have to go in front of a parole board that either grants or denies a parole date. Then it is up to the governor to rule on the parole decision, accord- ing to a CNN report.
Gary Hinman’s cousin, Kay Hinman Martley, told the AP, “I constantly have hope that they will do the right thing and keep these people in prison, and now my hopes have to go with the governor.”
She added that she plans to reach out to Newsom to tell him, “This man does not belong outside the walls of prison.” She also told CNN, “I’m very angry and disappointed with the justice system…I don’t understand why you would let someone out who has committed such a gruesome crime. Do you want him walking down the street next to you? This is a matter of public safety.”
According to Beausoleil’s attorney, Jason Campbell, his client is no longer dangerous, and his release is overdue. Campbell told CNN, “He has spent the last 50 years gradually growing and improving himself. …He’s a very conscientious, thoughtful and introspective person.”
Campbell added, “I am his lawyer, but beyond that, I have a family of my own, and I would have no problems inviting him over. He’s a very kind man, and I consider him a good man too.”
