Gavin Newsom Blocks Parole for Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel

Gavin Newsom has once more refused release for the convicted inmate, who has spent over half a century behind bars for her role in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca killings orchestrated by Charles Manson.

Governor's Decision Sparks Criticism

Months after California’s parole board found the 77-year-old suitable for freedom, the governor overturned the ruling and stated that Krenwinkel “currently represents an unreasonable danger to society if freed from prison at this time.”

It was the second instance the governor has blocked her release, and the decision was met with strong opposition from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who claimed the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and failed to consider the mistreatment she suffered from Manson.

“The governor's decision of Pat’s grant has no connection to the evidence of her transformation or the danger she presents,” 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 21 when the Manson cult carried out the murders of actor Sharon Tate and several others, among them socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of seven counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the crimes.

Life Behind Bars

In her decades behind bars – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior incarcerated woman – she has reformed, supporters and attorneys stated. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her behavior record is spotless, her attorney noted, which was a key factor the panel recommended her for release.

The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the offenses. Previously, she said: “I wish to express how terribly sorry I am for the harm and anguish that I caused when I took the lives that I did … I try every day to live amends … [and] work toward being a better person.”

Previous Mistreatment and Reform

A 2017 investigation by the authorities found she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her attorney said in a statement, adding that she has found her “personal identity, self-reliance, and moral compass”.

Other Cases

Newsom has previously denied parole for other former Manson followers. Another follower was released from California prison in recent years after over five decades when a court of appeals reversed the governor's ruling to deny her release.