California's Governor Rejects Early Release for Manson Follower Longtime Inmate

The governor again denied parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served more than five decades in prison for her involvement in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca killings orchestrated by Charles Manson.

Governor's Decision Draws Criticism

Nearly five months after the state parole panel deemed the 77-year-old fit for freedom, Newsom overturned the ruling and declared that the inmate “currently poses an unacceptable risk to the public if freed from custody at this time.”

This marks the second instance Newsom has prevented her release, and the decision was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who argued the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the abuse she endured from Manson.

“The governor's decision of her parole approval has no connection to the evidence of her transformation or the risk she presents,” stated Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the facts and the controlling law.”

Background of the Murders

Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson's followers committed the murders of actress Sharon Tate and several others, among them heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening killed Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of seven counts of murder charges for their roles in the crimes.

Life Behind Bars

Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving female prisoner – she has turned her life around, supporters and attorneys have reported. She has obtained higher education and her conduct is clean, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the panel recommended her for release.

The inmate has shown regret for her role in the offenses. Previously, she stated: “I want to say my deep regret I am for the harm and anguish that I caused when I took the lives that I did … I strive daily to live amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”

Past Abuse and Rehabilitation

A 2017 investigation by the parole board revealed she experienced abuse in multiple forms by Charles Manson, her lawyer noted, adding that she has developed her “personal identity, self-reliance, and ethical guidance”.

Similar Instances

Newsom has previously denied parole for other cult members. Leslie Van Houten was freed from state custody in 2023 after over five decades when a court of appeals reversed the governor’s decision to deny her release.