Susan's Record 1980-1989
|
|
1980 5-16-80
Occupational Therapist stated that “Susan has been doing excellent work
in O.T. as usual.” 5-30-80
Work Supervisor states Susan is good at completing her work and “displays
a good attitude towards her work.” 7-7-80 Psychiatrist Dr. Johnson states that
Susan’s accounts of the crime “are essentially in agreement with
the entries in [the] Central File except that she is much more critical of herself
than the observers of record.” “Family stresses, conflict and
trauma (largely underemphasized by [Susan]) seem to have established a basis
for the Subject’s abuse and ... joining up with Charles Manson.”
“...she picked up the subtler implications of “open”
questions and responded with trust and a remarkable degree of
self-searching.” “An indicator of the extent to which Ms. Atkins
has changed in outlook, comprehension, and maturation may be her view of the
position of the Board on her case. She sees the Board members [as] being in a
dilemma; if they can accept the fact that she is truly changed and is an
entirely different person than in 1969 to 1974... they then have the problem
of sending her back to a society which still will not tolerate her because of
the crime in which she participated. She reflects on this, not critically,
but with an air of sympathy.” “COMMENT: In some places in the
C-File are comments to the effect that “[Susan] has simply exchanged
one god for another.” If intended as a criticism, this comment is
illogical... Ms. Atkins has carried this further by transposing her
enlightening religious experience and the preoccupation therewith, into a
practical, everyday living experience. She has changed from being a blind
follower to a thinking, caring person imbued with the Christian
spirit.” “IMPRESSION: ...Remarkable mobilization of mental and
emotional assets while incarcerated. ...shows excellent judgment, positive
value system, and truly presents a transformation through finding the
positive elements in the present environment. This young woman appears to
have undergone a permanent change such that she would no longer constitute a
danger to the community.” 7-16-80 Susan’s Counselor states that Susan
“continues to display a friendly cooperative attitude towards both
staff and peers alike.” “Overall adjustment has been very
good.” “Prognosis - If Susan maintains her present attitude and
behavior pattern, there is no reason why she could not become a productive
member of the community. The Psychiatric Evaluation Report dated 7-7-80,
reports that Susan appears to have undergone a permanent change such [that]
she would no longer constitute a danger to the community.” 7-21-80 School Instructor states that Susan does
“excellent work,” is an “excellent student,” and that
“she was a tremendous help in assisting her fellow students.” 7-28-80 Susan received a Commendation Chrono from
Staff for voluntarily helping to strip, mop and wax all of the floors in the
Psychiatric Treatment unit. 7-28-80 Susan received a Commendation Chrono from
the Music Instructor for her “healthy cheerful and positive
attitude” during the 6 months she worked with him. 7-29-80 1980 Board Hearing -
Faulted for (Institutional behavior) - nothing 1) Remain disciplinary
free 7-29-80
Board states that Susan’s “institutional adjustment has
improved...” and that her “disciplinary record, psychiatric
evaluations and academic efforts have shown improvement.” 8-2-80 Susan was commended “for her
excellent help with the Legion of Mary...” 8-2-80 Susan is commended by Dr. White, Chief
Medical Officer. “I would like to commend Susan for helping to form and
direct the Choir. Upon our approval, Susan undertook this task with
enthusiasm, care and patience. She has put in many hours with the women in
rehearsals, putting together song books, teaching new songs, and to the joy
of all who attend Mass, we now have a Choir for Sunday Morning Mass. Thank
you Susan for being an encouragement to many. Your efforts and love are
appreciated.” “Susan is highly endorsed by the Legion of Mary
Chair-Person...” 8-2-80 Susan was commended by Monsignor Lawlor.
“I would like to commend Susan Atkins for her charitable work and help
in establishing a Choir for the Catholic Services. She was asked by the
members of the Choir to help them by directing their singing.” 8-6-80 Superintendent and Associate
Superintendent state that Susan in not considered a custodial or management
problem. 8-29-80
Work Supervisor states that Susan is “a self-motivated worker and
requires little supervision.” 9-3-80 Correctional Counselor stated that
“Ms. Atkins’ program participation and attitude are
superior.” “She is cheerful, courteous and a mature influence on
the cottage.” He also commended her for having no disciplinaries. 9-3-80 Superintendent and Associate
Superintendent state that Susan “has received commendation chronos ...
for participating in education program, for doing work over and above her
regular assignment, for helping in Legion of Mary, and for doing excellent
work in the Occupational Therapy class.” 12-10-80
Superintendent and Campus Manager state that Susan “has related well
with her peers and staff.” And that her supervisor “indicates
that her program participation and attitude are superior.” She was
commended for her program response. 12-15-80 Monsignor Lawlor stated that Susan
“has worked very hard whenever we ask her to help with the Legion of
Mary.” 1981 1-22-81
Work Supervisor states that Susan “is a conscientious and responsible
worker.” “Her attitude towards and rapport with her peers is
exemplary.” She also commends Susan for exceptional skill, knowledge,
and work habits. Exceptional attitude towards state and her job. Exceptional
quality of work, quantity of work, and care shown. 3-12-81
Work Supervisor states that Susan “is a conscientious worker that
assumes responsibility without the need for direct supervision. Susan
maintains a stable and mature attitude towards her peers.” She also
commends Susan for exceptional skill, knowledge, and work habits. 3-25-81
Superintendent, Associate Superintendent, and C&PR state that
Susan’s work report “shows all exceptional marks. With regards to
behavior and attitude, her demeanor toward staff and other inmates is also
described as excellent. She seems to be a stabilizer within [her]
cottage.” 3-25-81
Correctional Counselor stated that Susan’s work report “shows all
marks as exceptional. Her behavior and attitude toward staff and other
inmates is excellent. Ms. Atkins is seen as a stabilizer within the cottage.”
“It is felt by this writer that Ms. Atkins has worked very hard... and
has maintained herself in a more than satisfactory manner.” 4-13-81
Monsignor Lawlor thanked Susan for her “great help to the Legion of
Mary.” “...she is deeply appreciated.” 5-26-81
Correctional Counselor Pope states that Susan’s work report shows all
areas as exceptional. 6-11-81
Psychologist Dr. Jimakas states that “From all indications, it appears
that [Susan] has improved greatly from her original entry to CIW and appears
very likely to continue improving.” “She expressed good insight
in her processes... and showed good judgment currently.” In his testing
of Susan, he states that her responses were “essentially what may be
considered ...”normal”....” “Her violence potential,
estimated from both the information in her Central File and her interview
presentation, appears to currently be lower than the average inmate.” 6-17-81
Superintendent and C&PR state that the staff on Susan’s housing
unit consider her to be a stabilizer. 6-17-81
Correctional Counselor stated that Susan “continues to be a stabilizer
on the cottage.” And that her program continues in a positive manner. 7-10-81
Monsignor Lawlor commended Susan, stating that “She has a pleasing
personality and gets along well with her peers. When ever she is called for
duty, she comes running with a smile on her face.” 8-20-81
Susan’s Counselor states that “Miss Atkins has continued to be a
stabilizing influence in her living unit. She gets along well with her peers
and with custody staff. She displays a friendly, cooperative attitude. .. Her
overall adjustment continues to be a positive one.” “Prognosis:
This writer agrees with the report of July 1980 in that if Susan maintains
her present attitude and behavior pattern there is no reason why she could
not become a productive member of the community. ... Noted is the
Psychological report dated June 1981 in which Dr. Jimakas states that Miss
Atkins has improved greatly since her arrival at CIW and that she is continuing
to improve.” 8-91 Judge Choate tells the Board he no longer opposes Susan's release, as he has been given no evidence to show she can not be returned to the community. 9-16-81 1981 Board Hearing -
Faulted for (Institutional behavior) - nothing 2) Continue the education and
work program. 9-16-81
BPT acknowledges Susan's "gradual improvement over the years since
reception in the California Department of Corrections"... and
"Panel is also aware of improved psychological reports in this
case." 10-29-81 Superintendent,
Associate Superintendent, and C&PR recognize Susan for receiving several
commendations. 10-30-81
Monsignor Lawlor stated that Susan “always comes with a smile on her
face, and is willing to assist no matter how long it takes to get the job
done. It is a pleasure to have her in the Legion of Mary and all her hard
work is deeply appreciated.” 1982 1-11-82
Susan received a Commendation Chrono from correctional Counselor Pope to
express his appreciation “for the many hours devoted to helping make
Christmas a meaningful holiday at CIW.” 1-14-82
The Associate Superintendent commended Susan for her help during Christmas,
stating that Susan’s “assistance was greatly appreciated.” 1-26-82
Correctional Counselor stated that when Susan met with difficulties,
“she met it with a clear and open mind. She carefully thought out all
possibilities before making any decisions.” 3-5-82 Progress Report states that Susan is doing
well as a WAC representative. 4-12-82 Educational Instructor Griffith states that
Susan showed above average effort and exceptional conduct while taking his
class. 4-20-82
Susan received a Commendation Chrono from Monsignor Lawlor her “love
and devotion to our Legion [of Mary].” 5-82 Susan is allowed to work in the
Visiting Room’s new Children’s Center after completing 72 hours
in Child Development classes. 5-5-82 Superintendent, Associate Superintendent,
and C&PR commended Susan for being the “ex-officio close custody
representative for the Women’s Advisory Council (WAC), and maintaining
her program in an above average way.” 7-82 Educational Instructor Werner states
that Susan shows exceptional conduct and cooperation. She is an
“excellent student.” 7-82 Education Instructor Brandon, for
Creative Writing, states that Susan was made editor of the Creative Writing
magazine, where she was “energetic and well-organized; as a student she
was creative and productive.” 7-82 Educational Instructor Shenbaum states
that Susan showed exceptional effort, conduct and initiative. “She
completed more than the assigned work.” “She was never absent and
her attitude was excellent. Susan was a joy to work with and most helpful to
others.” 7-82 Educational Instructor Sullender states
that Susan has a “positive attitude,” actively participates and
is a “Good student.” 7-11-82
Educational Instructor Griffith states that Susan is “a serious and
motivated student,” who shows exceptional effort, conduct and
cooperation. 7-15-82
Susan received a Commendation Chrono from Staff for volunteering to clean her
housing unit when the Housegirl was ill for a week. 8-4-82 Superintendent, Associate Superintendent,
and C&PR recognize Susan’s work in the prison’s visiting room
Children’s Center, as well as her continued service as ex-officio
representative to WAC. 10-20-82 Monsignor
Lawlor stated that Susan “has been very active in the Legion of Mary
activities and is to be commended for all her hard work and volunteer
efforts...” “Susan gets along well with her peers and is always
willing to give a helping hand to those in need.” 11-3-82
Counselor Brown stated that Susan’s “program has continued in a
positive manner.” 11-8-82
The Academic Education Counselor stated the Susan “is to be commended
for her educational accomplishment.” He verified that Susan had
received her Associate of Arts degree, completing 71 1/3 semester units,
attending classes from the University of LaVerne, Chaffey Community College,
Coastline Community College, and the University of California, Santa Cruz,
with a GPA of better than 3.5. 11-12-82 Susan’s
Counselor states that Susan’s “overall adjustment has been
productive and positive.” “This writer agrees with [the] report
of September, 1981 in that if Ms. Atkins continues her present attitude and
behavior pattern there is no reason why she could not become a productive
member of the community.” 11-16-82 Psychologist
Dr. Arbel states that Susan shows “increased insight and motivation to
improve...” She “has attempted with a considerable degree of
success to improve [difficult] facets of her personality.” “She
appears to have embarked, in recent years, on a constructive course and the
resultant improvement is evident, and this process is expected to continue.”
“...her behavior and performance in this institution has been highly
regarded.” 12-16-82 1982 Board Hearing - Faulted for (Institutional behavior) - 1) A Disciplinary chrono (that doesn't appear in the File) 2) Separation after marriage. - Demands - 1) Remain disciplinary free. 2)Continue vocational upgrading. 3)Participate in therapy when available 1983 1-13-83
Vocational Instructor states that Susan “seems to be a capable and
promising student and is programming well...” He reports her
adaptability and effort as excellent. 2-1-83 Susan accepts appointment as WAC
representative by Superintendent. 4-1-83 Vocational Instructor states that Susan
“is working hard to succeed in the program and is accomplishing the
same. Susan has the ability and aptitude to be successful...” He
reported her conduct, cooperation, and dependability as excellent. 5-3-83 Monsignor Lawlor states that Susan worked
very hard and “is to be commended for all her efforts in the Legion of
Mary. Susan is a very warm outgoing person, and she has a lot of love and
talent and she is willing to share it with others.” 6-16-83
Vocational Instructor states that Susan’s conduct, dependability,
effort and initiative are all excellent. 10-13-83 Vocational
Instructor states that Susan has been given “Supervision of the data
entry and the production runs for the CIW Roster program. She is very
conscientious in her work and is doing a magnificent job.” Conduct and
cooperation are reported as excellent. 12-7-83
Correctional Counselor states that Susan has “attained 1265 hours in
Data Processing, and is reported as doing a magnificent job.” 1984 1-10-84
Vocational Instructor states that “Susan has been given the
responsibility for the Data Entry and Production runs of the roster program
for CIW. She is doing an above-average job, being very reliable and
responsible in the work she is doing.” He also reports her conduct and
initiative as excellent. 2-24-84
Monsignor states that “Susan is very reliable and comes to [choir]
rehearsals [even] when she is not feeling well...” He notes that Susan
comes to Mass every Sunday, directs the Choir, and should be “commended
for her good works.” 2-29-84
Correctional Counselor Magette stated that Susan “is reported as doing
an excellent job,” in Data Processing. 4-6-84 Vocational Instructor states that Susan
has made “excellent progress.” In addition to her vocational
studies, he reports that she is also “working on revisions to the roster
program.” Her adaptability and conduct is reported as excellent. 4-23-84
Vocational Instructor states that Susan “has gained employable skills
in the computer field.” He also reports her conduct, effort and
initiative all as excellent. 6-4-84 Susan’s Work Supervisor states that
“Susan has displayed a very positive attitude and a lot of interest
with her new job.” He reports that her attitude toward her fellow
inmates and toward staff and supervisors was above average. 6-8-84 Susan received a Commendation Chrono from
Production Manager for “excellent performance.” He also noted
that “Susan’s productivity and quality of work are definitely
above average and makes her an asset to this organization.” 6-30-84
Work Supervisor states that Susan is “making excellent
progress...” Her teamwork and participation, as well as the quality of
her work is all described as above average. Her effort is described as
exceptional. 8-1-84 Work Supervisor reports Susan’s
effort and attitude toward staff as above average, as is her participation.
Her use of equipment and interest in assigned work is described as
exceptional. 8-13-84 Dr Cotter says, in Susan's Physician's
Progress Notes, that "This woman has made good use of the educational
training, religious, and psychological help available to her... and has
matured during her stay here." 10-1-84
Dr. Jimakas states that during a 5-month group therapy period, she found that
Susan “participated actively on all topics discussed.” “Ms.
Atkins was very self-disclosing...” “She made many contributions
to other group members in terms of sharing her experiences and her own
difficulties. Ms. Atkins showed significant insight as well as
motivation for psychotherapy. She appeared to have matured
significantly and could be described as above-average in her ability to
understand and take responsibility for her behaviors, feelings and their
consequences. She has been placed on a waiting list for further group therapy
sessions as they become available...” 10-24-84 Superintendent
Johnson and Associate Superintendent Jillson report that Susan has attained
above average work reports from industry. 11-19-84 The
Catholic Chaplain states that Susan is being trained to take over as
Chairperson for the Legion of Mary. He claims that “Her willingness to
help the Legion of Mary maintain it’s high standard of excellence as a
Self-Help Group within the Institution is greatly appreciated by everyone in
the organization. She is a hard worker in her volunteer efforts and is a
positive asset and influence amongst the Inmates in this organization.” 12-84 Susan was a member of the Recreation
Committee, volunteering to assist in planning, coordinating and modeling the
campus Christmas show. 1985 1-15-85
Work Supervisor states that he finds Susan “to have a positive attitude
toward her work.” He reports her participation and teamwork to be above
average, and her attitude toward staff and the quality of her work to be
exceptional. 2-85 Susan begins working with staff in an
attempt to organize a ALANON program at CIW - a self-help program for
relatives of alcoholics. (the program didn’t work out.) 2-24-85
Susan receives a Commendation Chrono for her assistance with the Legion of
Mary. 6-15-85
Susan received a Commendation Chrono from staff who states that “I
would like to commend Inmate Atkins on the manner in which she handled
herself during an Institutional Lock Down...” “she helped
alleviate a great deal of stress and tension amongst her peers. She
acted in a responsible manner throughout the lock-down.” “I have
found Inmate Atkins to be a stable and responsible inmate, when a problem
occurs on the unit and a WAC member is needed, Susan has aided this
staff.” 6-17-85
Susan receives a Certificate of Participation from Alcoholics and Narcotics
Anonymous. 6-27-85
Susan is recommended for re-election for another term as WAC representative. 7-15-85
Susan becomes Chairperson of AA/NA. 7-21-85
The AA Sponsor states that Susan is an active member, attends regularly, and
that “Her continuous participation has helped make our AA/NA meetings
successful.” 9-9-85 Susan receives a Certificate of
Participation from Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous. 10-17-85
Work Supervisor states that Susan “is a concerned and responsible
person with her assignment. She is capable of dealing with any problems that
tend to arise in her day to day duties.” She is reported to show an
above average skill and knowledge, and her teamwork is exceptional. 10-17-85 The
Production Manager of Industry states that Susan “is an asset to this
operation.” He commends her on attitude, her interest in her work and
the effort she displays in her assigned work. He also reports Susan’s
learning ability as exceptional. 11-18-85 Susan
receives a Certificate of Participation from Alcoholics and Narcotics
Anonymous. 11-20-85 Counselor
states that “Contact with subject has been minimal in this past year
because she is usually able to resolve her problems herself... She programs well
and has had few problems in the Unit. Unit officers have indicated to me that
[Susan] is no problem and can be depended on for assistance if called upon to
do so.” “Overall personal growth this past year has been very
good.” 12-2-85
Staff Psychologist stated that during the 5-months of group therapy, Susan
was an active participant, showed insight, was assertive and open in the
group, and shared experiences of real personal importance. 12-5-85
Psychologist Dr. Hamner states that “considerable improvement has
occurred since 1982...” 12-13-85 Susan
received a Commendation Chrono from the Senior Medical Technical Assistant,
who stated that he found Susan to be a “diligent, conscientious, and
caring individual as she has worked with the Medical Department Personnel on
resolving various types of Medical problems that Inmates come to her
with. Her manner has always been one of professional courtesy whenever
I have attended a Medical Committee Meeting with the WAC members.”
“Susan is to be commended for her volunteer work with the Medical
Department and it is hoped that she will come back and work with the Medical
Department again in the future.” 12-24-85 Susan
received a Laudatory Chrono from the Production Manager stating that, in the
18 months that he worked with Susan, he found her to be “a diligent and
conscientious employee towards her assignment. I feel that Inmate Atkins is
capable of handling this type of job upon her release.” He further
commended her for handling the pressure from both inmates and staff on a
day-to-day basis. 12-31-85 1985 Board Hearing - (Institutional behavior) Faulted for - 1)
Psychological report by Dr. Hamner. - Demands - 1)
Remain disciplinary free. 1986 2-20-86
Program Administrator notes that Susan is still chairperson of AA. 3-24-86
The AA Sponsor states that Susan’s participation in AA has
“helped to make our meetings successful.” 5-12-86
Susan receives a Certificate of Participation from Alcoholics and Narcotics
Anonymous. 9-8-86 The AA Sponsor states that during the 14
months that Susan has acted as Executive Chairperson of AA, she participated
in an active manner. “She has helped the organization to function in a
positive manner.” 10-28-86 Susan
received an Award of Merit for Outstanding Achievement for showing
“exceptional ability” and achieving “outstanding
recognition” from the Want Institute, Group Therapy, Dr. Minion (?),
Dr. Parker, Dr. Allen, and Dr. Patton. 11-6-86
Susan receives a chrono from the AA Sponsor thanking her for her active and
continuous participation in AA. 11-19-86
Susan was Awarded a Certificate of Appreciation from the State of California
for services rendered to the Women’s Advisory Council at CIW. 11-21-86 Work
Supervisor reports Susan’s attitude as exceptional. He also reports her
quality and quantity of work as exceptional. 12-5-86
The LTO Sponsor thanked Susan for her contribution to LTO’s project
Para Los Ninos in Los Angeles, which handmade Christmas gifts for
underprivileged children. She states that Susan’s “efforts and
enthusiasm in working on the project have made is possible to achieve the
goals that were set.” 12-26-86 Vocational
Instructor states that “Susan is a very bright lady...”
“She adapted quickly and will continue to excel in the program.”
He grades her adaptability and effort as excellent. 12-31-86 Vocational
Instructor states that “Susan brought... much brilliance to our
program...” “Her attitude is good; she’s helpful to others,
and she’s quite anxious to learn and apply herself fully.” He
gives her straight A’s for her attitudes. 1987 1987 Susan receives a 1st Place Award
Certificate for her participation in the Women’s Summer Olympics. (no
date) 1-12-87 Program Administrator Nelson commended
Susan for serving two successful terms of office with the WAC (Women’s
Advisory Council), and for serving on the Medical Committee. He states that
Susan’s “contribution to this organization was greatly
appreciated.” 3-31-87
Vocational Instructor Wells commends Susan for “perfecting her
advanced-level skills...” and for “completing special projects
for our program as well as for others throughout the institution. She is
anxious to learn and to apply herself and will continue to excel in our
program.” Her conduct, cooperation, dependability, effort and
initiative are all reported as exceptional. 5-4-87 Susan received a Certificate of
Educational Achievement from the State of California for completion of
training in Advanced Typing Review. 5-5-87 Susan received a Laudatory Chrono from the
Child Development Instructor for formatting and typing six entire sections of
the statewide competency based Effective Parenting Curriculum Test. He states
that Susan’s work was well done and professional, and Susan “is
to be commended for her efforts.” 5-7-87 Susan received a Certificate of Educational
Achievement from the State of California for completion of training in
Intermediate level word processing using the LANIER EZ-1. 6-30-87
Vocational Supervisor states that Susan “produces high quality
documents and will continue to excel...” He gives her straight
A’s in conduct, attitude, and assigned work. 7-6-87 Susan received a Certificate of
Educational Achievement from the State of California for completion of
training in Advanced Level Word Processing using the CPT 8500. 7-6-87 Susan received a Certificate of
Educational Achievement from the State of California for completion of
training in Entry Level Word Processing using the LANIER EZ-1. 7-6-87 Susan received a Certificate of
Educational Achievement from the State of California for completion of
training in Entry Level Word Processing using a PC. 7-30-87
Vocational Instructor states that “Susan was an excellent
student...” She is “fully employable. She is very bright and made
an excellent addition to our class.” He gave her straight A’s in
attitude and classwork. 10-6-87
Psychologist Dr. Jamakas, after having Susan in one of his therapy groups,
stated that she had “participated actively at all times and showed
qualities of being a good-peer counselor to other inmates... shown continuous
improvement as noted in group [by] her interpersonal communication with other
group members and willing[ness] to take risks in terms of exposing her
thoughts and feelings.” 1988 4-14-88
Work Supervisor states that Susan “handles job assignments very well
[with] little or no supervision.” She reports Susan’s attitude as
above average. 7-20-88 Executive Body and Group Sponsor for LTO
acknowledged Susan for her participation and enthusiasm in the Long
Termer’s Organization. 10-4-88 Susan received a Certificate of Completion
for Successful Completion of three months of Dr. Parker’s Psychotherapy
group. 10-14-88 Work
Supervisor states that “Susan does [an] above average job, [she] is
punctual, completes assignments with minimum supervision.” He reports
her attitude toward staff and her skill as above average. 10-18-88 Counselor
states that Susan “is to be commended on her active participation in
AA/NA, noting her position as executive chairperson... She is further commended
on her above average work reports for three different assignments, and her
participation in WAC. She has attended three group therapy sessions since her
last Board appearance and appears to be meeting the recommendations of the
BPT. 11-8-88
Psychiatrist Dr. Villar states that
Susan’s “insight is very good and her judgment is intact.”
“She has emotionally matured in regards to her outlook towards
society.” “She showed a lot of remorse when talking about the
details of the crime.” 12-1-88
Psychologist Dr. Arbel states that
Susan “seems to have good insight into the psychological dynamics that
led her to join Manson and become so vulnerable to his manipulation and
control at the outset of their encounter.” “In comparing the 1982
evaluation by this writer... there seems to be improvement in insight, less
defensiveness, and her emotions are more stable.” “This behavior
indicate[s] improved stability and self-discipline.” “Ms. Atkins
was described as having made continuous improvement in interpersonal
communication and that she has gained good insight into her
psychodynamics.” “With regard to the present offense, she showed
good insight about the crucial psychological circumstances that led to her
involvement with the “Manson Family”.” 12-16-88 1988 Board Hearing - (Institutional behavior) Faulted for - 1) Not participating in self-help or therapy including
AA/NA and one-on-one therapy. (This is a claim contradicted by the record.) - Demands - 1)
Remain disciplinary free. 1989 2-7-89 Susan received a Certificate of Completion
for Successful Completion of another three months of Dr. Parker’s
Psychotherapy group. 2-15-89
Program Administrator and Correctional Counselor state that at Post Board,
Susan “requests placement in Voc Data Processing (in response to Board
demands) and participation in individual psychological counseling (in
response to Board demands).” “Committee notes no individual
counseling is available...” 6-28-89
Susan received a Certificate of Educational Achievement from the State of
California for completion of training in Vocational Data Processing and
Introduction to UNIX operating system. 6-28-89
Vocational Instructor reports Susan’s conduct, dependability, effort
and initiative as excellent. 7-20-89
Educational Instructor Orleans commended Susan for being an “excellent
student,” and for her “outstanding class participation.” 7-30-89
Susan’s Counselor acknowledged her as an “Excellent
student.” 9-27-89
Vocational Instructor reports Susan’s conduct, dependability and effort
as excellent. 9-27-89
Susan received a Certificate of Educational Achievement from the State of
California for completion of training in introduction to Basic Programming. 9-27-89
Susan received a Certificate of Educational Achievement from the State of
California for completion of training in introduction to Data Processing. 9-27-89
Susan received a Certificate of Educational Achievement from the State of
California for completion of training in Equipment Utilization. 10-2-89
Psychiatrist Dr. Armstrong states that Susan’s insight and judgment
capabilities [were] commendable.” “...her level of dangerousness
appears to me less than that of the average inmate and the likelihood of her
return to drug abuse also most unlikely.” 11-8-89
Susan’s Counselor states that “She continues to excel and do
above average work on her vocational and educational program. Though most of
the difficulty Ms Atkins has experienced [is]... due to the fact that she has
not had a chance to be more involved in self-help groups and therapy programs
because of the long waiting list.” 11-9-89
Program Administrator and Correctional Counselor commend Susan for her
“excellent job on her College Education program.” 12-2-89
Susan was thanked by an Administrator for her special “contribution to
the “Gifts for Children of CIW Project.” Her gift inspired many
others to contribute as well, and is greatly appreciated.” 12-20-89 1989 Board Hearing - (Institutional behavior) Faulted for - 1) Not
having programmed long enough. (After doing 20 years on a 7-to-life
sentence.) - Demands - 1) Remain disciplinary free. 12-29-89 Work
Supervisor reports that Susan’s conduct, cooperation, and dependability
are all excellent.
|