Gavin Newsom Rejects Parole for Cult Member Longtime Inmate
The governor again refused parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served more than half a century behind bars for her involvement in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca killings orchestrated by Charles Manson.
Parole Reversal Sparks Backlash
Nearly five months after the state parole panel deemed the elderly suitable for freedom, the governor overturned the decision and declared that the inmate “currently poses an unacceptable risk to the public if released from prison at this time.”
It was the second instance Newsom has blocked her parole, and the decision was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who argued the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the abuse she endured from the cult figure.
“Newsom’s reversal of Pat’s grant has no connection to the evidence of how much she’s changed or the risk she poses,” stated 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 actor Sharon Tate and several others, among them heiress Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the following night killed Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of seven counts of murder charges for their involvement in the crimes.
Life Behind Bars
Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior incarcerated woman – she has reformed, supporters and attorneys have reported. She has obtained higher education and her conduct is clean, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the parole board supported her parole.
The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the crimes. In 2022, she stated: “I wish to express 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 make amends … [and] work toward being a better person.”
Previous Mistreatment and Reform
An earlier inquiry by the parole board found she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her attorney noted, adding that she has developed her “own identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.
Similar Instances
The governor has previously denied parole for other Manson followers. Leslie Van Houten was released from state custody in recent years after over five decades when a court of appeals overturned the governor's ruling to deny her release.
