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Gavin Newsom again rejected parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served more than half a century in prison for her role in the notorious murders masterminded by the cult leader.

Parole Reversal Sparks Backlash

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

This marks the second time Newsom has blocked her release, and the decision was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who claimed the governor chose “politics over people” and overlooked the mistreatment she suffered from Manson.

“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has nothing to do with the evidence of how much she’s changed or the risk she presents,” stated her attorney, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the evidence and the controlling law.”

Case History of the Murders

Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actor Sharon Tate and several others, including heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of multiple counts of murder charges for their roles in the attack.

Life Behind Bars

Over many years behind bars – she is California’s longest serving female prisoner – she has turned her life around, friends and her legal team stated. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her conduct is clean, her attorney noted, which was a key factor the panel recommended her for release.

The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the crimes. 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 try every day to live amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”

Past Abuse and Rehabilitation

An earlier inquiry by the parole board revealed she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her lawyer noted, stating that she has found her “personal identity, independence, and moral compass”.

Similar Instances

The governor has previously denied release for other former cult members. Another follower was released from California prison in recent years after over five decades when a court of appeals reversed the governor’s decision to block her parole.