California's Governor Rejects Parole for Cult Member Patricia Krenwinkel
The governor has once more refused release for the convicted inmate, who has spent more than half a century behind bars for her role in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by Charles Manson.
Parole Reversal Draws Criticism
Months after the state parole panel found the 77-year-old fit for release, Newsom reversed the ruling and declared that the inmate “currently poses an unacceptable risk to the public if freed from custody at this time.”
This marks the second time the governor has blocked her release, and the decision was met with strong opposition from her legal representative, who argued the governor chose “politics over people” and failed to consider the abuse she endured from Manson.
“Newsom’s reversal of Pat’s grant has nothing to do with the evidence of how much she’s changed or the risk she presents,” said her attorney, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, in opposition to the evidence and the governing regulations.”
Background of the Murders
The inmate was 21 when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actress Sharon Tate and four others, including socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of multiple counts of first-degree murder for their roles in the attack.
Life Behind Bars
Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior incarcerated woman – she has turned her life around, friends and her legal team stated. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education 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 offenses. Previously, she stated: “I wish to express my deep regret I am for all the pain and suffering that I caused when I ended the lives that I did … I strive daily to make amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”
Previous Mistreatment and Reform
A 2017 investigation by the authorities revealed she endured abuse in multiple forms by Charles Manson, 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 cult members. Leslie Van Houten was freed from state custody in 2023 after 53 years when a court of appeals reversed the governor’s decision to deny her release.
