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Gavin Newsom has once more rejected parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served over half a century behind bars for her role in the 1969 murders masterminded by the cult leader.

Parole Reversal Sparks Criticism

Months after California’s parole board deemed the elderly suitable for release, Newsom reversed the decision and stated that the inmate “currently poses an unacceptable risk to society if released from custody at this time.”

This marks the second instance Newsom has blocked her parole, and the decision was met with strong opposition from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who claimed the governor chose “politics over people” and overlooked the abuse she endured from the cult figure.

“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has no connection to the evidence of her transformation or the danger she poses,” stated her attorney, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the facts and the controlling law.”

Case History of the Murders

The inmate was twenty-one when the Manson's followers carried out the murders of actor Sharon Tate and four others, including socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening killed Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of multiple counts of murder charges for their involvement in the attack.

Life Behind Bars

Over many years in prison – she is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has reformed, friends and her legal team have reported. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her conduct is clean, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the parole board recommended her for release.

The inmate has shown regret for her role in the offenses. Previously, she said: “I want to say my deep regret I am for all the pain and suffering 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 Rehabilitation

An earlier inquiry by the parole board revealed she endured abuse in multiple forms by the cult leader, her attorney noted, adding that she has found her “own identity, self-reliance, and moral compass”.

Other Cases

Newsom has previously denied parole for other Manson followers. Another follower was freed from California prison in 2023 after over five decades when a court of appeals overturned the governor's ruling to block her parole.