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Gavin Newsom again rejected release for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served over half a century in prison for her involvement in the 1969 murders masterminded by Charles Manson.

Parole Reversal Sparks Backlash

Months after the state parole panel found the 77-year-old fit for release, Newsom overturned the ruling and stated that Krenwinkel “currently poses an unacceptable risk to the public if freed from prison at this time.”

This marks the second time Newsom has blocked her release, and the move was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who claimed the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the abuse she suffered from the cult figure.

“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has no connection to the evidence of her transformation or the risk she poses,” said her attorney, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, in opposition to the evidence and the governing regulations.”

Case History of the Murders

The inmate was 21 when the Manson's followers carried out the murders of actor Sharon Tate and four others, among them socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening killed Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of multiple counts of murder charges for their roles in the crimes.

Prison Transformation

Over many years in prison – she is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has reformed, friends and her legal team have reported. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her conduct is clean, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the panel supported her parole.

The inmate has shown regret for her actions 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 ended the lives that I did … I strive daily to live amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.”

Previous Mistreatment and Reform

A 2017 investigation by the authorities 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 blocked release for other Manson followers. Another follower was released from state custody in 2023 after 53 years when a state appeals court reversed the governor's ruling to block her parole.