Although many around the world are familiar with the name "Charles Manson," members of recent generations would be forgiven for being hazy about a serial killer who is now 80 years old. Manson received a life sentence in 1971 for the murder of seven people, including the wife of filmmaker Roman Polanski (The Pianist, The Ghost Writer) and an unborn child. Manson escaped the death penalty, as the American state of California had temporarily abolished the penalty in 1972.
While Manson narrowly avoided a death sentence, he has not been granted parole since he was first incarcerated, and his next hearing is due to occur in 2027-if he reaches 90, it will most likely be his final chance. Manson is also denied conjugal visits, so if the marriage to 26-year-old Afton Elaine Burton proceeds, a consummation of vows will not take place.
Burton, whose sister has told the press that she thinks the marriage idea is "insane," has spent much of her life trying to clear Manson's name, and believes that she can continue with this effort more effectively as his wife. Burton first revealed the wedding plan in 2013 in an interview with Rolling Stone magazine.
The Californian Department of Corrections confirmed to that the license was sent to Burton 10 days ago, while Corcoran State Prison has provided a wedding coordinator, as well as a venue for the marriage. The total number of external guests at the wedding has also been verified, with both parties permitted to invited a congregation consisting of 10 people.
Even though she does not have her sister's blessings, Burton is adamant about officially securing Manson as her husband, exclaiming to reporters, "I love him [Manson]." Burton will not be a pioneer in such matters, though, as she will join numerous other notable prison love stories. Serial killers Ted Bundy and Richard "Night Stalker" Ramirez all left wives behind, while Kenneth "Hillside Strangler" Bianchi married his pen pal in 1989.
