In Memory of Susan Denise Atkins-Whitehouse
Interview with Susan's Father
In December 1969,
NBC News interviewed Susan's father.
The interview is part of a larger news segment
of what was happening that day.
During the segment,
we see Susan being escorted by guards
in what looks like a chaotic frenzy.
A reporter's voice-over says:
"Susan Atkins, who told the shocking story of the crimes,
was one of those indicted.
Her lawyers say she was hypnotized.
Her father, who didn't want to be identified, disagrees"
In December 1969,
NBC News interviewed Susan's father.
The interview is part of a larger news segment
of what was happening that day.
During the segment,
we see Susan being escorted by guards
in what looks like a chaotic frenzy.
A reporter's voice-over says:
"Susan Atkins, who told the shocking story of the crimes,
was one of those indicted.
Her lawyers say she was hypnotized.
Her father, who didn't want to be identified, disagrees"
At this point in the film clip, there is a man on screen who is
in a shadow, his back to the camera,
and is identified on screen as Susan Atkins' father.
A reporter talks with him,
and this was their conversation:
in a shadow, his back to the camera,
and is identified on screen as Susan Atkins' father.
A reporter talks with him,
and this was their conversation:
Susan's father: "I think they're all on dope.
And if you've been under enough dope,
you can be involved in almost anything because the hypnotic trance
(indiscernible) you'll do something that is basically against what
you know is right.
But under dope you can do almost anything"
Reporter: "Well do you plan to stand by her side in what undoubtedly
will be the trial which is, she faces? [sic]
Susan's father: "I don't know how to stand by her side.
I lost her.
I want society to stand by her side.
I want society to stand by the side
of every young person that can get involved
in a situation like this"
And if you've been under enough dope,
you can be involved in almost anything because the hypnotic trance
(indiscernible) you'll do something that is basically against what
you know is right.
But under dope you can do almost anything"
Reporter: "Well do you plan to stand by her side in what undoubtedly
will be the trial which is, she faces? [sic]
Susan's father: "I don't know how to stand by her side.
I lost her.
I want society to stand by her side.
I want society to stand by the side
of every young person that can get involved
in a situation like this"
