Gavin Newsom Again Denies Parole for Cult Member Patricia Krenwinkel
Gavin Newsom again denied release for the convicted inmate, who has spent more than five decades in prison for her involvement in the notorious murders orchestrated by the cult leader.
Governor's Decision Sparks Criticism
Months after California’s parole board found the 77-year-old suitable for freedom, Newsom overturned the decision and declared that the inmate “currently represents an unacceptable risk to the public if freed from prison at this time.”
It was the second time the governor has prevented her release, and the move was met with strong opposition from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who argued the governor chose “politics over people” and overlooked the abuse she endured from the cult figure.
“The governor's decision of her parole approval has no connection to the record of how much she’s changed or the risk she presents,” said Keith Wattley, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the facts and the governing regulations.”
Background of the Crimes
Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson's followers committed the murders of actress Sharon Tate and several others, including socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. In 1971, she and fellow cult members were found guilty of seven counts of murder charges for their involvement in the crimes.
Prison Transformation
In her decades in prison – she is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has turned her life around, friends and her legal team stated. She has obtained higher education and her conduct is clean, legal counsel said, which was one of the reasons the panel recommended her for release.
The inmate has expressed remorse for her role in the crimes. Previously, she said: “I want to say how terribly sorry I am for the harm and anguish that I caused when I ended the lives that I did … I strive daily to live amends … [and] work toward being a better person.”
Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation
A 2017 investigation by the authorities revealed she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her attorney said in a statement, adding that she has developed her “own identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.
Other Cases
Newsom has previously blocked parole for other former Manson followers. Another follower was released from state custody in 2023 after 53 years when a court of appeals reversed the governor’s decision to deny her release.
