Charles Manson was convicted in 1971 of masterminding 1969 murders at the home of actor Sharon Tate (with coffee heiress Abigail Folger among those murdered), and the butchery of Leno and Rosemary LaBianca. These murders were ritualistic acts, inviting numerous theories about their purpose and Manson’s cult family. The most popular theory is that the murders were inspired by Manson’s interpretation of the Beatles, including his belief that the song “Helter Skelter” referred to a coming race war which the murders were intended to provoke. The Internet still features a plethora of sites protesting Manson’s innocence and those adamantly proclaiming that justice was served.

Still in prison, with no likelihood of parole, Manson now preaches and sings over the Web about ecology and the environment. One of his followers was also convicted of trying to assassinate President Gerald Ford.