🔗 Share this article

The governor again rejected parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served over five decades behind bars for her involvement in the notorious murders orchestrated by the cult leader.

Governor's Decision Draws Backlash

Nearly five months after California’s parole board deemed the elderly suitable for release, Newsom overturned the ruling and stated that Krenwinkel “currently represents an unacceptable risk to the public if released from prison at this time.”

This marks the second time Newsom has prevented her parole, and the move was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who argued the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the mistreatment she suffered from Manson.

“Newsom’s reversal of Pat’s grant has nothing to do with the record of her transformation or the risk she presents,” said Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, in opposition to the evidence and the governing regulations.”

Background of the Crimes

The inmate was twenty-one when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actress Sharon Tate and four others, including heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. In 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 in prison – she is California’s longest serving female prisoner – she has reformed, friends and her legal team have reported. She has earned college degrees and her behavior record is spotless, her attorney noted, which was one of the reasons the parole board supported her parole.

The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the offenses. In 2022, she stated: “I want to say how terribly sorry I am for the harm and anguish that I created when I ended the lives that I did … I try every day to make amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”

Past Abuse and Rehabilitation

An earlier inquiry by the parole board revealed she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by the cult leader, her lawyer noted, adding that she has developed her “personal identity, independence, and moral compass”.

Similar Instances

Newsom has previously blocked parole for other former Manson followers. Leslie Van Houten was released from California prison in recent years after 53 years when a state appeals court overturned the governor’s decision to block her parole.