California's Governor Blocks Parole for Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel
Gavin Newsom has once more refused parole for the convicted inmate, who has spent over half a century behind bars for her role in the notorious murders orchestrated by the cult leader.
Parole Reversal Draws Backlash
Nearly five months after the state parole panel found the elderly fit for release, Newsom reversed the ruling and stated that the inmate “currently represents an unacceptable risk to the public if released from prison at this time.”
This marks the second instance Newsom has prevented her parole, and the move was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who argued the governor chose “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the mistreatment she suffered from Manson.
“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has nothing to do with the record of her transformation or the danger she presents,” said Keith Wattley, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It's entirely political, in opposition to the facts and the governing regulations.”
Background of the Crimes
Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson's followers committed the murders of actor Sharon Tate and several others, among them socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were found guilty of seven counts of first-degree murder for their roles in the crimes.
Prison Transformation
In her decades behind bars – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has turned her life around, friends and her legal team have reported. She has earned college degrees and her conduct is spotless, her attorney said, which was one of the reasons the parole board supported her parole.
The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the offenses. In 2022, she said: “I want to say my deep regret I am for the harm and anguish that I caused when I ended the lives that I did … I try every day to make amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”
Past Abuse and Rehabilitation
An earlier inquiry by the authorities revealed she experienced abuse in multiple forms by the cult leader, her attorney noted, adding that she has found her “own identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.
Similar Instances
The governor has previously denied release for other Manson followers. Leslie Van Houten was released from state custody in recent years after 53 years when a state appeals court overturned the governor’s decision to block her parole.
