Gavin Newsom Again Denies Early Release for Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel
Gavin Newsom has once more denied parole for the convicted inmate, who has served more than half a century behind bars for her role in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by the cult leader.
Parole Reversal Draws Backlash
Months after the state parole panel found the 77-year-old fit for release, Newsom overturned the ruling and declared that the inmate “currently represents an unreasonable danger to society if released from prison at this time.”
It was the second instance the governor has prevented her parole, and the move was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who claimed 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 nothing to do with the record of how much she’s changed or the risk she presents,” said Keith Wattley, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the facts and the controlling law.”
Case History of the Murders
Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson cult carried out the killings of actor Sharon Tate and several others, among them socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening killed grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the attack.
Prison Transformation
Over many years behind bars – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving female prisoner – she has turned her life around, supporters and attorneys stated. Krenwinkel has earned college degrees and her conduct is spotless, legal counsel noted, which was a key factor the panel recommended her for release.
The inmate has expressed remorse for her role in the crimes. In 2022, 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 make amends … [and] focus on self-improvement.”
Previous Mistreatment and Reform
A 2017 investigation by the authorities found she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her attorney noted, stating that she has found her “personal identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.
Similar Instances
Newsom has previously blocked parole for other former cult members. Another follower was freed from California prison in 2023 after over five decades when a court of appeals reversed the governor's ruling to deny her release.