California's Governor Again Denies Parole for Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel
The governor again refused parole for the convicted inmate, who has spent over half a century in prison for her role in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by the cult leader.
Governor's Decision Sparks Backlash
Months after the state parole panel deemed the elderly suitable for freedom, Newsom overturned the decision and stated that Krenwinkel “currently poses an unreasonable danger to society if released from custody at this time.”
This marks the second instance the governor has blocked her parole, and the decision was met with strong opposition from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who claimed the governor chose “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the mistreatment she endured from Manson.
“Newsom’s reversal of Pat’s grant has no connection to the record of how much she’s changed or the risk she poses,” stated her attorney, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the facts and the controlling law.”
Background of the Murders
The inmate was twenty-one when the Manson cult carried out the murders of actor Sharon Tate and several others, including socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of multiple counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the crimes.
Prison Transformation
Over many years behind bars – she is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has turned her life around, supporters and attorneys have reported. She has earned college degrees and her behavior record is spotless, her attorney noted, which was a key factor the parole board recommended her for release.
Krenwinkel has expressed remorse for her actions in the offenses. In 2022, she stated: “I want to say my deep regret I am for all the pain and suffering that I caused when I ended the lives that I did … I strive daily to make amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”
Past Abuse and Reform
A 2017 investigation by the authorities revealed she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her attorney noted, adding that she has found her “personal identity, self-reliance, and ethical guidance”.
Similar Instances
The governor has previously blocked release for other former cult members. Leslie Van Houten was released from state custody in 2023 after over five decades when a court of appeals reversed the governor's ruling to deny her release.