California's Governor Again Denies Early Release for Manson Follower Longtime Inmate
Gavin Newsom again refused release for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served over half a century in prison for her involvement in the notorious murders orchestrated by Charles Manson.
Governor's Decision Sparks Criticism
Nearly five months after California’s parole board deemed the elderly fit for freedom, Newsom overturned the ruling and declared that the inmate “currently represents an unacceptable risk to society if released from prison at this time.”
It was the second instance the governor has prevented her release, and the move was met with strong opposition from her legal representative, who claimed the governor opted for “politics over people” and overlooked the abuse she endured from Manson.
“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has nothing to do with the record of how much she’s changed or the risk she poses,” stated her attorney, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, in opposition to the evidence and the controlling law.”
Case History of the Murders
The inmate was 21 when the Manson cult carried out the murders of actress Sharon Tate and four others, among them heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of multiple counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the attack.
Life Behind Bars
Over many years behind bars – she is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has reformed, friends and her legal team stated. She has earned college degrees and her behavior record is clean, legal counsel noted, which was one of the reasons the parole board recommended her for release.
The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the offenses. Previously, she stated: “I wish to express how terribly sorry I am for the harm and anguish that I created when I ended the lives that I did … I try every day to make amends … [and] focus on self-improvement.”
Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation
An earlier inquiry by the parole board revealed she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by the cult leader, her attorney noted, stating that she has found her “personal identity, independence, and moral compass”.
Similar Instances
The governor has previously blocked release for other former Manson followers. Another follower was released from California prison in 2023 after 53 years when a state appeals court overturned the governor's ruling to deny her release.
