Gavin Newsom Again Denies Early Release for Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel
Gavin Newsom again rejected release for the convicted inmate, who has served over half a century in prison for her role in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by Charles Manson.
Governor's Decision Draws Backlash
Nearly five months after California’s parole board deemed the 77-year-old fit for freedom, Newsom overturned the ruling and declared that the inmate “currently poses an unreasonable danger to society if released from custody at this time.”
It was the second instance the governor has prevented her parole, and the decision was met with strong opposition from her legal representative, who claimed the governor chose “political motives over human considerations” and failed to consider the mistreatment she suffered from the cult figure.
“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has no connection to the evidence of how much she’s changed or the risk she poses,” said Keith Wattley, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the facts and the governing regulations.”
Case History of the Murders
The inmate was twenty-one when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actress Sharon Tate and four others, among them socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary LaBianca. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of multiple counts of murder charges for their roles in the attack.
Prison Transformation
Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving female prisoner – she has reformed, supporters and attorneys stated. She has earned college degrees and her conduct is spotless, 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 my deep regret I am for the harm and anguish that I created when I took the lives that I did … I strive daily to make amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.”
Past Abuse and Reform
A 2017 investigation by the parole board revealed she experienced abuse in multiple forms by Charles Manson, her attorney said in a statement, adding that she has found her “personal identity, independence, and moral compass”.
Other Cases
The governor has previously blocked release for other Manson followers. Another follower was freed from state custody in 2023 after 53 years when a court of appeals reversed the governor's ruling to block her parole.
