Houston Deputy Shot in Ambush Attack:  A Houston deputy constable was shot several times in a "completely unprovoked" attack Wednesday evening but is expected to survive.  Fox News reports that Alden Clopton, an 11-year veteran of the force, suffered abdomen wounds and had a bullet lodged near his heart after a gunman approached him from behind and fired six shots, striking Clopton four times.  The authorities are questioning a man they believe to be the shooter.  Clopton is the second Harris County officer to be ambushed from behind in the past year, and the second to be shot in Texas in less than 12 hours.

Former Manson Family Member Seeks Parole:  A woman who followed Charles Manson and participated in one of the nation's most notorious murders is scheduled for her 21st parole hearing Thursday.  Amy Taxin of the AP reports that 66-year-old Leslie Van Houten was 19 in 1969 when she and other "Manson family" members murdered Leno La Bianca and his wife Rosemary in their Los Angeles home, just one day after actress Sharon Tate and four other were viciously murdered.  After spending over four decades in prison, Van Houten's attorney argues that she no longer presents a danger to the public.  However, Sharon Tate's sister has initiated an online petition opposing parole for the convicted murderer, saying she failed to show remorse for the crime and is untrustworthy.  Charles Manson, now 81, and his other followers involved in the killings remain behind bars.  Update:  The California state parole board granted parole to Van Houten.  Its recommendation will now be sent to Gov. Brown.