A convicted killer described as a top follower of mass murderer Charles Manson was granted parole Thursday.
Bruce Davis, 69, imprisoned for the 1969 killings of musician Gary Hinman and ranch hand Donald "Shorty" Shea, was recommended for parole in 2010, but his release was later blocked by then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
In a news release, officials said the panel agreed to parole "because of his positive adjustment, record of no recent disciplinary problems, and for successfully completing academic and vocational education and self-help programs."
Davis did not participate in the 1969 Manson family murders of actress Sharon Tate and six others. During his 40 years in prison, he became an ordained minister and earned master's degrees in philosophy and religion via a correspondence program.
Davis was convicted in 1972 of the Manson-dictated murders of Hinman and Shea. The parole hearing will be held at the California Men's Colony in San Luis Obispo.
The parole must still be finalized by the state after a 120-day review period.
