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Gavin Newsom again refused release for the convicted inmate, who has spent over five decades behind bars for her involvement in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by the cult leader.

Governor's Decision Draws Criticism

Nearly five months after the state parole panel found the elderly fit for freedom, the governor reversed the ruling and declared that Krenwinkel “currently represents an unacceptable risk to society if released from prison at this time.”

It was the second time Newsom has blocked her parole, and the decision was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who argued the governor chose “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the mistreatment she suffered from the cult figure.

“Newsom’s reversal of Pat’s grant has no connection to the record of her transformation or the danger she presents,” said Keith Wattley, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It's entirely political, in opposition to the evidence and the governing regulations.”

Case History of the Murders

Krenwinkel was twenty-one 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 killed Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of seven counts of first-degree murder for their roles in the crimes.

Prison Transformation

Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has reformed, friends and her legal team have reported. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her behavior record is spotless, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the parole board recommended her for release.

Krenwinkel has expressed remorse for her actions in the offenses. Previously, she said: “I want to say how terribly sorry I am for all the pain and suffering that I created when I took the lives that I did … I strive daily to make amends … [and] focus on self-improvement.”

Past Abuse and Reform

An earlier inquiry by the parole board found she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by the cult leader, her lawyer noted, adding that she has found her “own identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.

Other Cases

Newsom has previously blocked release for other former Manson followers. Another follower was freed from state custody in recent years after over five decades when a court of appeals reversed the governor's ruling to block her parole.