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The governor has once more denied parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served over half a century behind bars for her involvement in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca killings orchestrated by the cult leader.

Parole Reversal Draws Backlash

Months after the state parole panel found the elderly suitable for release, Newsom reversed the ruling and stated that Krenwinkel “currently represents an unreasonable danger to the public if released from custody at this time.”

This marks the second instance Newsom has blocked her release, and the decision was met with strong opposition from her legal representative, who argued the governor opted for “politics over people” and failed to consider the abuse she endured from the cult figure.

“The governor's decision of Pat’s grant has no connection to the record of her transformation or the risk she poses,” said her attorney, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the evidence and the governing regulations.”

Case History of the Crimes

The inmate was 21 when the Manson's followers carried out the murders of actor Sharon Tate and several others, among them socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of multiple counts of murder charges for their roles in the crimes.

Prison Transformation

In her decades in prison – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has turned her life around, friends and her legal team stated. She has obtained higher education and her behavior record is spotless, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the parole board supported her parole.

The inmate has shown regret for her role in the crimes. Previously, she stated: “I want to say my deep regret I am for all the pain and suffering that I caused when I took the lives that I did … I try every day to make amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”

Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation

A 2017 investigation by the parole board found she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her attorney noted, stating that she has found her “own identity, independence, and moral compass”.

Similar Instances

The governor has previously blocked parole for other Manson followers. Another follower was released from state custody in 2023 after 53 years when a court of appeals reversed the governor's ruling to deny her release.