California's Governor Blocks Early Release for Cult Member Longtime Inmate
The governor again refused parole for the convicted inmate, who has served more than half a century behind bars for her role in the 1969 murders orchestrated by Charles Manson.
Parole Reversal Draws Backlash
Months after the state parole panel found the 77-year-old fit for freedom, the governor overturned the decision and stated that Krenwinkel “currently poses an unreasonable danger to society if released from custody at this time.”
This marks the second time Newsom has blocked her release, and the move was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who argued the governor chose “political motives over human considerations” and failed to consider the abuse 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 poses,” said Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, in opposition to the evidence and the governing regulations.”
Background of the Murders
Krenwinkel was twenty-one when the Manson's followers committed the murders of actor Sharon Tate and four others, among them socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the following night killed grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were found guilty of multiple counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the attack.
Prison Transformation
Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has turned her life around, friends and her legal team stated. Krenwinkel has earned college degrees and her conduct is clean, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the parole board recommended her for release.
The inmate has shown regret for her role in the crimes. Previously, she stated: “I wish to express my deep regret 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] work toward being a better person.”
Past Abuse and Reform
A 2017 investigation by the authorities revealed she endured abuse in multiple forms by the cult leader, her lawyer said in a statement, adding that she has developed her “own identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.
Similar Instances
The governor has previously denied parole for other former cult members. Leslie Van Houten was freed from California prison in recent years after over five decades when a court of appeals overturned the governor’s decision to deny her release.