Gavin Newsom Blocks Early Release for Cult Member Patricia Krenwinkel

Gavin Newsom again rejected release for the convicted inmate, who has spent over half a century behind bars for her role in the notorious murders orchestrated by Charles Manson.

Parole Reversal Draws Criticism

Nearly five months after the state parole panel found the 77-year-old fit for release, Newsom overturned the decision and stated that the inmate “currently represents an unreasonable danger to society if released from prison at this time.”

This marks the second time the governor has prevented her release, and the move was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who claimed the governor chose “politics over people” and overlooked the abuse she suffered from the cult figure.

“Newsom’s reversal of Pat’s grant has nothing to do with the evidence of how much she’s changed or the danger she presents,” stated her attorney, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the facts and the governing regulations.”

Case History of the Crimes

The inmate was twenty-one when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actor Sharon Tate and four others, including heiress Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the crimes.

Life Behind Bars

Over many years behind bars – she is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has reformed, supporters and attorneys have reported. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her behavior record is clean, legal counsel noted, which was one of the reasons the panel recommended her for release.

The inmate has shown regret for her role in the crimes. Previously, she said: “I wish to express my deep regret I am for the harm and anguish that I created when I took the lives that I did … I try every day to make amends … [and] focus on self-improvement.”

Past Abuse and Rehabilitation

An earlier inquiry by the parole board revealed she endured abuse in multiple forms by Charles Manson, her attorney noted, adding that she has found her “personal identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.

Other Cases

The governor has previously denied parole for other Manson followers. Another follower was freed from state custody in 2023 after 53 years when a court of appeals reversed the governor’s decision to deny her release.