California's Governor Again Denies Early Release for Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel
The governor again refused release for the convicted inmate, who has spent more than half a century behind bars for her involvement in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by Charles Manson.
Governor's Decision Sparks Criticism
Months after California’s parole board found the elderly fit for freedom, the governor overturned the decision and declared that Krenwinkel “currently represents an unacceptable risk to society if freed from custody at this time.”
It was the second instance the governor has prevented her parole, and the decision was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who argued the governor chose “politics over people” and overlooked the mistreatment she endured from the cult figure.
“The governor's decision of Pat’s grant has nothing to do with the evidence of her transformation or the danger she presents,” said her attorney, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the evidence and the governing regulations.”
Background of the Crimes
Krenwinkel was twenty-one when the Manson cult carried out the murders of actor Sharon Tate and four others, among them socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening killed grocer Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary. In 1971, she and fellow cult members were convicted of multiple counts of murder charges for their roles in the crimes.
Life Behind Bars
In her decades behind bars – she is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has reformed, supporters and attorneys have reported. Krenwinkel has earned college degrees and her behavior record is spotless, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the panel supported her parole.
Krenwinkel has expressed remorse for her role in the offenses. Previously, she stated: “I want to say my deep regret I am for all the pain and suffering that I created when I ended the lives that I did … I try every day to live amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.”
Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation
An earlier inquiry by the parole board found she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her lawyer noted, adding that she has found her “personal identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.
Similar Instances
Newsom has previously blocked parole for other former cult members. Leslie Van Houten was released from California prison in 2023 after 53 years when a state appeals court reversed the governor’s decision to block her parole.
