🔗 Share this article

Gavin Newsom has once more denied parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has spent over half a century in prison for her role in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by Charles Manson.

Parole Reversal Sparks Backlash

Months after California’s parole board found the elderly fit for release, the governor overturned the decision and stated that Krenwinkel “currently poses an unacceptable risk to the public if freed from custody at this time.”

It was the second instance the governor has prevented her release, and the move was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who argued the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and failed to consider the mistreatment she endured from the cult figure.

“The governor's decision of her parole approval has no connection to the evidence of her transformation or the risk she poses,” said Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the evidence and the governing regulations.”

Background of the Murders

Krenwinkel was twenty-one when the Manson cult carried out the killings of actress Sharon Tate and several others, among them heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the following night killed Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of seven counts of murder charges for their involvement in the attack.

Life Behind Bars

Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving female prisoner – she has reformed, supporters and attorneys have reported. She has obtained higher education and her conduct is spotless, legal counsel said, which was one of the reasons the panel supported her parole.

Krenwinkel has expressed remorse for her role in the offenses. In 2022, she said: “I wish to express my deep regret I am for the harm and anguish that I created when I took the lives that I did … I try every day to make amends … [and] work toward being a better person.”

Past Abuse and Rehabilitation

An earlier inquiry by the authorities revealed she endured abuse in multiple forms by Charles Manson, her attorney noted, stating that she has found her “personal identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.

Similar Instances

The governor has previously denied release for other former Manson followers. Another follower was freed from state custody in 2023 after 53 years when a state appeals court reversed the governor's ruling to deny her release.