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The governor again rejected parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has spent over half a century behind bars for her involvement in the notorious murders orchestrated by Charles Manson.

Governor's Decision Draws Backlash

Months after California’s parole board deemed the elderly suitable for freedom, the governor reversed the ruling and declared that the inmate “currently represents an unreasonable danger to the public if freed from prison at this time.”

It was the second time the governor has blocked her parole, and the decision 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 endured from Manson.

“The governor's decision of her parole approval has nothing to do with the record of how much she’s changed or the risk she presents,” said her attorney, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the facts and the controlling law.”

Case History of the Crimes

The inmate was 21 when the Manson cult committed the killings of actor Sharon Tate and several others, among them socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary. In 1971, she and fellow cult members were convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the crimes.

Prison Transformation

Over many years in prison – she is California’s longest serving female prisoner – she has turned her life around, supporters and attorneys stated. She has earned college degrees and her conduct is clean, legal counsel said, which was one of the reasons the parole board recommended her for release.

Krenwinkel has shown regret for her role in the crimes. Previously, she stated: “I wish to express how terribly sorry I am for all the pain and suffering that I caused when I took the lives that I did … I strive daily to make amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”

Past Abuse and Reform

An earlier inquiry by the authorities revealed she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by the cult leader, her lawyer noted, stating that she has developed her “personal identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.

Other Cases

Newsom has previously denied parole for other cult members. Another follower was released from state custody in 2023 after 53 years when a court of appeals reversed the governor’s decision to block her parole.