Gavin Newsom Rejects Early Release for Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel

The governor again rejected release for the convicted inmate, who has spent more than half a century behind bars for her role in the notorious murders masterminded by Charles Manson.

Governor's Decision Sparks Backlash

Months after California’s parole board deemed the 77-year-old fit for release, the governor reversed the decision and declared that Krenwinkel “currently represents an unacceptable risk to society if freed from custody at this time.”

It was the second time the governor has blocked her release, and the decision was met with strong opposition from her legal representative, who claimed the governor chose “political motives over human considerations” and failed to consider the mistreatment she suffered from the cult figure.

“Newsom’s reversal of Pat’s grant has nothing to do with the evidence of her transformation or the danger she presents,” said her attorney, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the evidence and the governing regulations.”

Case History of the Murders

The inmate was 21 when the Manson's followers committed the murders of actress Sharon Tate and several others, including heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary LaBianca. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were found guilty of multiple counts of murder charges for their roles in the attack.

Prison Transformation

Over many years in prison – she is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has turned her life around, friends and her legal team stated. Krenwinkel has earned college degrees and her conduct is spotless, her attorney said, which was one of the reasons the parole board recommended her for release.

The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the offenses. In 2022, she said: “I wish to express how terribly sorry I am for all the pain and suffering that I created when I ended the lives that I did … I strive daily to live amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.”

Past Abuse and Rehabilitation

A 2017 investigation by the authorities revealed she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by the cult leader, her attorney said in a statement, adding that she has developed her “own identity, self-reliance, and ethical guidance”.

Other Cases

Newsom has previously denied release for other former Manson followers. Leslie Van Houten was freed from state custody in recent years after 53 years when a court of appeals overturned the governor’s decision to deny her release.