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Gavin Newsom has once more refused release for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has spent over half a century in prison for her involvement in the 1969 murders masterminded by Charles Manson.

Parole Reversal Draws Criticism

Nearly five months after the state parole panel deemed the elderly fit for release, Newsom reversed the ruling and stated that Krenwinkel “currently represents an unreasonable danger to society if freed from custody at this time.”

This marks the second time the governor has prevented her parole, and the decision was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who argued the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the abuse she endured from the cult figure.

“The governor's decision of Pat’s grant has no connection to the evidence of how much she’s changed or the danger she poses,” stated Keith Wattley, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the evidence and the governing regulations.”

Case History of the Crimes

Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson cult committed the killings of actress Sharon Tate and several others, among them heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary LaBianca. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were found guilty of seven counts of murder charges for their involvement in the attack.

Prison Transformation

Over many years behind bars – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has reformed, friends and her legal team have reported. She has earned college degrees and her conduct is clean, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the parole board supported her parole.

The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the crimes. Previously, she stated: “I wish to express how terribly sorry I am for all the pain and suffering that I created when I took the lives that I did … I strive daily to live amends … [and] work toward being a better person.”

Previous Mistreatment and Reform

A 2017 investigation by the authorities revealed she endured abuse in multiple forms by Charles Manson, her attorney said in a statement, stating that she has found her “own identity, independence, and moral compass”.

Other Cases

Newsom has previously denied release for other Manson followers. Another follower was freed from state custody in 2023 after over five decades when a state appeals court reversed the governor’s decision to block her parole.