Gavin Newsom Again Denies Early Release for Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel

The governor has once more refused release for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served over five decades in prison for her role in the notorious murders orchestrated by Charles Manson.

Parole Reversal Draws Criticism

Nearly five months after the state parole panel deemed the 77-year-old fit for release, the governor reversed the ruling and declared that Krenwinkel “currently represents an unreasonable danger to the public if freed from custody at this time.”

It was the second time the governor has prevented her release, and the decision was met with strong opposition from her legal representative, who claimed the governor chose “politics over people” and overlooked the mistreatment she endured from the cult figure.

“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has nothing to do with the evidence of her transformation or the risk she poses,” stated Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the facts and the controlling law.”

Case History of the Crimes

Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actor Sharon Tate and four others, including heiress Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening killed Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. In 1971, she and fellow cult members were convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the attack.

Life Behind Bars

In her decades behind bars – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has reformed, supporters and attorneys have reported. She has obtained higher education and her behavior record is spotless, legal counsel noted, which was one of the reasons the panel recommended her for release.

The inmate has expressed remorse for her actions in the offenses. Previously, she stated: “I wish to express 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 live amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.”

Past Abuse and Rehabilitation

An earlier inquiry by the parole board found she experienced abuse in multiple forms by the cult leader, her lawyer noted, stating that she has found her “personal identity, self-reliance, and ethical guidance”.

Other Cases

The governor has previously denied parole for other former cult members. Another follower was released from California prison in recent years after 53 years when a court of appeals overturned the governor's ruling to deny her release.