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The governor again refused release for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served over half a century in prison for her role in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings orchestrated by Charles Manson.

Governor's Decision Draws Backlash

Months after the state parole panel deemed the 77-year-old suitable for release, the governor overturned the decision and stated that the inmate “currently represents an unacceptable risk to the public if released from prison at this time.”

It was the second instance the governor has prevented her parole, and the move was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who claimed the governor chose “politics over people” and overlooked the mistreatment she suffered from Manson.

“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has nothing to do with the evidence of how much she’s changed or the danger she presents,” said Keith Wattley, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It's entirely political, in opposition to the facts and the controlling law.”

Case History of the Murders

The inmate was twenty-one when the Manson's followers carried out the murders of actress Sharon Tate and several others, including heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary LaBianca. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of seven counts of murder charges for their roles in the crimes.

Prison Transformation

Over many years behind bars – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving 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. Previously, she said: “I wish to express how terribly sorry I am for the harm and anguish that I caused when I ended the lives that I did … I try every day to make amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”

Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation

A 2017 investigation by the authorities revealed she endured abuse in multiple forms by the cult leader, her lawyer noted, stating that she has developed her “personal identity, independence, and moral compass”.

Other Cases

Newsom has previously denied release for other Manson followers. Leslie Van Houten was freed from state custody in 2023 after 53 years when a court of appeals reversed the governor’s decision to block her parole.