Manson Follower Atkins Has Lawsuit Scaled Back

A federal judge has dismissed portions of a lawsuit that contends former Manson family member Susan Atkins is a political prisoner because of the governor's policy opposing parole for most murderers.

U.S. District Judge Robert J. Timlin ruled Wednesday that Atkins cannot sue the state, some agencies and commissioners because of their official actions, the Associated Press reported.

Atkins, 55, is serving a life term, as are Charles Manson and three others, for their roles in a series of 1969 cult murders, whose victims included pregnant actress Sharon Tate.