manson family
California Gov. Gavin Newsom rejected parole in 2020 for Van Houten, who was 19 during the 1969 murders.
The Charles Manson follower wrote "Helter Skelter" on a wall using blood of one of their murder victims.
On Thursday, a California panel recommended that Van Houten be paroled after serving nearly five decades in prison.
If Van Houten's case withstands review, her fate will rest in the hands of California’s new Gov. Gavin Newsom.
WHAT'S HAPPENING
Pledging to tell the stories of the cult leader's victims meant journeying to dark places.
The infamous mass murderer is serving a life sentence in a California prison.
She has been in prison longer than any other female in California history.
Van Houten is serving a life sentence for multiple murders, but maintains she was manipulated by Manson.
Jane Doe #59 was identified by DNA testing, after she was recognized in a photo
Leslie Van Houten is serving a life sentence.