California's Governor Again Denies Parole for Manson Follower Longtime Inmate
The governor again refused release for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served more than five decades behind bars for her involvement in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings orchestrated by Charles Manson.
Parole Reversal Sparks Criticism
Nearly five months after the state parole panel found the 77-year-old suitable for freedom, the governor overturned the decision and stated that the inmate “currently poses an unacceptable risk to the public if released from custody at this time.”
This marks the second instance Newsom has blocked her release, and the move was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who argued the governor chose “politics over people” and overlooked the abuse she endured from Manson.
“The governor's decision of Pat’s grant has no connection to the record of her transformation or the danger she poses,” said her attorney, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the evidence and the governing regulations.”
Background of the Murders
The inmate was twenty-one when the Manson's followers committed the killings of actor Sharon Tate and several others, including heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were found guilty of multiple counts of murder charges for their involvement in the attack.
Prison Transformation
Over many years behind bars – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has turned her life around, friends and her legal team have reported. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her behavior record is spotless, her attorney noted, which was one of the reasons the panel recommended her for release.
The inmate has shown regret for her role in the offenses. Previously, she said: “I wish to express my deep regret I am for all the pain and suffering that I created when I took the lives that I did … I strive daily to make amends … [and] work toward being a better person.”
Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation
An earlier inquiry by the parole board found she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by the cult leader, her attorney said in a statement, stating that she has developed her “own identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.
Other Cases
Newsom has previously denied parole for other former Manson followers. Another follower was freed from California prison in recent years after over five decades when a court of appeals reversed the governor's ruling to deny her release.
