California's Governor Again Denies Parole for Manson Follower Longtime Inmate

Gavin Newsom again rejected parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has spent over five decades behind bars for her involvement in the 1969 murders orchestrated by the cult leader.

Governor's Decision Draws Backlash

Months after California’s parole board deemed the elderly suitable for freedom, Newsom overturned the decision and stated that the inmate “currently represents an unreasonable danger to society if freed from custody at this time.”

It was the second time the governor has blocked her parole, and the move was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who argued the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and failed to consider the abuse she endured from the cult figure.

“Newsom’s reversal of Pat’s grant has no connection to the record of how much she’s changed or the danger she presents,” said Keith Wattley, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It's entirely political, in opposition to the facts and the governing regulations.”

Case History of the Murders

The inmate was 21 when the Manson's followers committed the murders of actress Sharon Tate and four others, including socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of seven counts of first-degree murder for their roles in the crimes.

Prison Transformation

In her decades behind bars – she is the state's most senior incarcerated woman – she has reformed, supporters and attorneys stated. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her conduct is spotless, her attorney said, which was one of the reasons the panel supported her parole.

The inmate has expressed remorse for her role in the crimes. Previously, she said: “I wish to express how terribly sorry I am for all the pain and suffering that I created when I ended the lives that I did … I try every day to make amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.”

Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation

An earlier inquiry by the parole board found she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her lawyer said in a statement, adding that she has found her “personal identity, self-reliance, and ethical guidance”.

Other Cases

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