California's Governor Blocks Early Release for Cult Member Patricia Krenwinkel
The governor has once more denied parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has spent over half a century in prison for her role in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by the cult leader.
Parole Reversal Draws Criticism
Months after California’s parole board found the elderly suitable for freedom, the governor reversed the decision and stated that the inmate “currently poses an unacceptable risk to society if released from custody at this time.”
It was the second time Newsom has blocked her release, and the decision 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.
“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has no connection to the record of how much she’s changed or the risk she presents,” said Keith Wattley, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the facts and the governing regulations.”
Case History of the Crimes
Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson's followers committed the killings of actor Sharon Tate and four others, including heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of multiple counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the crimes.
Prison Transformation
Over many years behind bars – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has reformed, friends and her legal team have reported. She has earned college degrees and her conduct is clean, her attorney noted, which was one of the reasons the panel recommended her for release.
Krenwinkel has expressed remorse for her actions in the offenses. In 2022, she stated: “I wish to express my deep regret I am for all the pain and suffering that I caused when I ended the lives that I did … I try every day to make amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.”
Past Abuse and Reform
An earlier inquiry by the authorities revealed she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her lawyer said in a statement, adding that she has developed her “own identity, independence, and moral compass”.
Similar Instances
Newsom has previously blocked release for other cult members. Another follower was released from state custody in 2023 after over five decades when a court of appeals overturned the governor’s decision to block her parole.
