Gavin Newsom Rejects Early Release for Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel
The governor has once more rejected parole for the convicted inmate, who has served more than five decades behind bars for her involvement in the 1969 murders masterminded by the cult leader.
Governor's Decision Draws Backlash
Months after the state parole panel deemed the 77-year-old fit for release, Newsom reversed the ruling and stated that Krenwinkel “currently represents an unacceptable risk to the public if freed from prison at this time.”
This marks the second time Newsom has blocked her parole, and the decision was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, 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 evidence of how much she’s changed or the risk she poses,” stated Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the evidence and the controlling law.”
Case History of the Crimes
The inmate was 21 when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actress Sharon Tate and four others, among them socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening killed Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the crimes.
Life Behind Bars
Over many years in prison – she is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has reformed, supporters and attorneys have reported. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her behavior record is clean, legal counsel noted, which was one of the reasons the panel recommended her for release.
The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the offenses. In 2022, she stated: “I want to say how terribly sorry I am for all the pain and suffering that I created when I took the lives that I did … I try every day to live amends … [and] work toward being a better person.”
Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation
A 2017 investigation by the parole board revealed she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her lawyer said in a statement, stating that she has developed her “personal identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.
Other Cases
Newsom has previously denied parole for other former cult members. Leslie Van Houten was released from state custody in 2023 after over five decades when a court of appeals overturned the governor's ruling to deny her release.
