Why Was Susan Atkins Allowed to Live Happy and Safely with Hospital Cares?

The headlines often paint grim pictures of life in prison, but the situation for inmates like Susan Atkins is more complex. The infamous case of Atkins—who was jailed for her part in the brutal murders of Sharon Tate and her family—raises questions about the fairness of the legal system and the life of prisoners.

The Case Against Susan Atkins

On August 9, 1969, Susan Atkins, along with other members of the Manson Family, was implicated in the murders of Sharon Tate and her husband, Jay Sebring, as well as the guests visiting their Beverly Hills home. Sharon Tate was eight months pregnant at the time of the killings. The murders served as a shocking and brutal reminder of the dark period in American history known as the 'Tate-LaBianca murders.'

Controversial Parole Decisions

The legal landscape of Atkins' case is clouded by several controversial decisions. The death penalty was abolished in California for various reasons, including concerns about wrongful executions and judicial bias. Atkins was spared the death penalty, but that does not mean her life in prison was easy. She faced multiple parole hearings over the years, but was consistently denied due to her lack of remorse and the severity of her crimes. Atkins ultimately died in prison at the age of 51, having spent the majority of her life under harsh and inhumane conditions.

Does Life in Prison Equate to a Bowl of Cherries?

Prison life is not as glamorous as it is often depicted. The reality is that prisons are filled with dangerous and violent individuals. Life in prison can be incredibly unpleasant, even more so for those like Atkins who spent decades incarcerated. Her decline in health is only a testament to the deplorable conditions and the toll that incarceration can take on individuals. Atkins suffered from paralysis in one leg and had her other leg amputated, a tragic outcome that reflects the severe health issues she faced while in prison.

Parental Rights and Prison Justice

Another aspect of the case that sparked controversy was the termination of Atkins' parental rights. The child she was carrying at the time of her arrest was taken from her, and her parental rights were legally terminated. This separation from her child is a poignant reminder of the collateral damage that results from such heinous crimes. The legal system aimed to protect the child by removing him from an environment of danger and instability, which was undoubtedly for the best.

Religious and Ethical Considerations in Prison Justice

The principle of 'eye for an eye' is a concept deeply rooted in ethical and religious perspectives. However, in a nation that values life and human rights, the desire for retribution is often pragmatic and constrained. One cannot expect to avenge the deaths of a pregnant mother and her child by harming an innocent infant. American society has recognized the inhumane potential of jailhouse justice, where the power to decide the fate of another inmate lies in the hands of a small group of like-minded individuals. This can lead to injustice and a lack of impartiality in the justice system.

Healthcare for Inmates

The case of Atkins also highlights the importance of providing medical care to prisoners. While it is recognized that inmates are entitled to medical treatment, the reality of prison healthcare varies. In some instances, inmates may receive inadequate care, leading to serious health conditions and even death. The case of Atkins' daughter, whose severe mental illness and breast cancer went untreated in jail, is a stark example of how the justice system can fail to protect the health and well-being of inmates. Prisoners, like all citizens, deserve humane treatment, including access to necessary medical care.

Conclusion

The case of Susan Atkins and the other Manson Family members remains a pivotal part of American criminal history. While the legal system aimed to provide justice for the victims, the treatment of Atkins in prison raises questions about its fairness and the humane treatment of inmates. The legal and ethical complexities of the case continue to be a subject of debate, with scholars, activists, and concerned citizens advocating for reform in the criminal justice system.