Gavin Newsom Blocks Early Release for Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel

Gavin Newsom has once more rejected parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has spent over five decades behind bars for her role in the notorious murders masterminded by the cult leader.

Parole Reversal Sparks Criticism

Nearly five months after the state parole panel found the elderly fit for release, Newsom overturned the decision and stated that the inmate “currently poses an unreasonable danger to society if freed from prison at this time.”

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

“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has nothing to do with the record of how much she’s changed or the risk she presents,” stated her attorney, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the facts and the controlling law.”

Case History of the Murders

Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson's followers carried out the murders of actress Sharon Tate and several others, including socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening killed Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the attack.

Life Behind Bars

In her decades behind bars – she is the state's most senior incarcerated woman – she has turned her life around, friends and her legal team stated. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her conduct is spotless, her attorney noted, which was a key factor the panel recommended her for release.

The inmate has shown regret for her role in the crimes. Previously, she said: “I want to say 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 live amends … [and] focus on self-improvement.”

Previous Mistreatment and Reform

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

Similar Instances

The governor has previously blocked parole for other Manson followers. Another follower was released from California prison in 2023 after over five decades when a court of appeals reversed the governor’s decision to block her parole.