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The governor has once more rejected release for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has spent more than half a century behind bars for her involvement in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca killings orchestrated by the cult leader.

Parole Reversal Sparks Criticism

Nearly five months after the state parole panel deemed the 77-year-old fit for freedom, Newsom reversed the ruling and declared that Krenwinkel “currently poses an unreasonable danger to society if freed from prison at this time.”

This marks the second time Newsom has prevented her release, and the move was met with strong opposition from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who claimed the governor opted for “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 risk she poses,” said Keith Wattley, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the facts and the governing regulations.”

Background of the Crimes

Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson cult committed the murders of actress Sharon Tate and several others, including socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the following night killed Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. In 1971, she and fellow cult members were convicted of seven counts of murder charges for their roles in the attack.

Life Behind Bars

Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has reformed, friends and her legal team stated. Krenwinkel has earned college degrees and her conduct is clean, legal counsel noted, which was one of the reasons the panel recommended her for release.

The inmate has expressed remorse for her role in the offenses. Previously, she stated: “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 make amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.”

Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation

A 2017 investigation by the parole board revealed she endured abuse in multiple forms by the cult leader, her attorney said in a statement, adding that she has found her “personal identity, self-reliance, and moral compass”.

Similar Instances

Newsom has previously blocked parole for other former Manson followers. Leslie Van Houten was released from California prison in recent years after over five decades when a state appeals court overturned the governor's ruling to block her parole.