Charles Manson follower Leslie Van Houten has again been denied parole and two journalists who covered the murder trial 50 years ago are offering their views on her case.

While behind bars, Van Houten has earned college degrees, organized self-help groups for women in prison -- and found unlikely defenders.

A California panel recommended Charles Manson follower Leslie Van Houten be paroled, leaving the decision now in the hands of Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Manson follower Leslie Van Houten shown (left) en route to court in August 1970 and in a March 2015 prison mugshot with a "Golden Girl" sign referring to a program for older inmates.