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The governor again denied release for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served over half a century behind bars for her involvement in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca killings orchestrated by Charles Manson.

Governor's Decision Draws Criticism

Months after the state parole panel deemed the elderly suitable for release, the governor reversed the decision and stated that Krenwinkel “currently represents an unreasonable danger to the public if released from custody at this time.”

This marks the second instance Newsom has blocked her parole, 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 Manson.

“The governor's decision of Pat’s grant has no connection to the evidence of her transformation or the risk she presents,” stated her attorney, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It's entirely political, in opposition to the evidence and the governing regulations.”

Background of the Murders

Krenwinkel was twenty-one when the Manson cult committed the murders of actor Sharon Tate and four others, among them heiress Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were found guilty of seven counts of murder charges for their involvement in the attack.

Prison Transformation

Over many years behind bars – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has reformed, friends and her legal team have reported. Krenwinkel has earned college degrees and her conduct is clean, legal counsel noted, which was a key factor the panel supported her parole.

Krenwinkel has expressed remorse for her actions in the offenses. Previously, she said: “I wish to express my deep regret I am for all the pain and suffering that I created when I ended the lives that I did … I strive daily to live amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.”

Past Abuse and Rehabilitation

A 2017 investigation by the parole board found she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her lawyer said in a statement, adding that she has developed her “personal identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.

Other Cases

Newsom has previously blocked parole for other Manson followers. Another follower was freed from state custody in 2023 after 53 years when a state appeals court overturned the governor’s decision to block her parole.