California's Governor Again Denies Parole for Cult Member Patricia Krenwinkel

The governor again rejected release for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served over half a century behind bars for her role in the 1969 murders masterminded by Charles Manson.

Parole Reversal Draws Backlash

Months after California’s parole board found the 77-year-old suitable for release, the governor overturned the ruling and declared that Krenwinkel “currently poses an unacceptable risk to society if freed from custody at this time.”

It was the second instance the governor has prevented her release, and the decision was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who argued the governor chose “politics over people” and overlooked the mistreatment she suffered from the cult figure.

“The governor's decision of her parole approval has nothing to do with the record of her transformation or the risk she poses,” said her attorney, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the facts and the controlling law.”

Case History of the Murders

Krenwinkel was twenty-one when the Manson cult carried out the murders of actor Sharon Tate and several others, including socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of multiple counts of first-degree murder 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 stated. She has obtained higher education and her conduct is spotless, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the parole board supported her parole.

The inmate has expressed remorse for her role in the offenses. In 2022, she stated: “I wish to express how terribly sorry I am for the harm and anguish that I caused when I took the lives that I did … I try every day to make amends … [and] work toward being a better person.”

Previous Mistreatment and Reform

A 2017 investigation by the parole board revealed she experienced abuse in multiple forms by Charles Manson, her lawyer said in a statement, stating that she has found her “personal identity, independence, and moral compass”.

Other Cases

Newsom has previously denied release for other Manson followers. Another follower was freed from California prison in recent years after 53 years when a state appeals court overturned the governor’s decision to block her parole.