Gavin Newsom Blocks Early Release for Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel
Gavin Newsom has once more refused parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served over five decades in prison for her involvement in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by the cult leader.
Governor's Decision Sparks Criticism
Nearly five months after California’s parole board deemed the elderly fit for freedom, Newsom overturned the ruling and stated that the inmate “currently poses an unreasonable danger to society if released from custody at this time.”
This marks the second instance the governor has prevented her parole, and the move was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who argued the governor chose “politics over people” and overlooked the abuse she endured from Manson.
“The governor's decision of Pat’s grant has nothing to do with the record of her transformation or the risk she poses,” said Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, in opposition to the facts and the governing regulations.”
Case History of the Crimes
Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson's followers committed the murders of actor Sharon Tate and several others, among them heiress Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the following night killed grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of multiple counts of first-degree murder 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, supporters and attorneys have reported. She has obtained higher education and her conduct is spotless, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the parole board recommended her for release.
The inmate has expressed remorse for her role in the offenses. Previously, she said: “I want to say 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] work toward self-improvement.”
Past Abuse and Rehabilitation
A 2017 investigation by the parole board revealed she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by the cult leader, her lawyer noted, stating that she has developed her “own identity, self-reliance, and moral compass”.
Similar Instances
The governor has previously blocked release for other Manson followers. Leslie Van Houten was freed from California prison in recent years after 53 years when a state appeals court overturned the governor's ruling to block her parole.
