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Gavin Newsom has once more refused parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served over five decades in prison for her role in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca killings orchestrated by the cult leader.

Governor's Decision Draws Backlash

Nearly five months after the state parole panel found the 77-year-old suitable for release, Newsom reversed the ruling and declared that Krenwinkel “currently poses an unacceptable risk to society if freed from prison at this time.”

This marks the second time Newsom has prevented her parole, and the decision was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who argued the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and failed to consider the abuse she suffered from the cult figure.

“The governor's decision of Pat’s grant has no connection to the evidence of her transformation or the danger she presents,” stated her attorney, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, in opposition to the evidence and the governing regulations.”

Case History of the Murders

Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson's followers committed the killings of actor Sharon Tate and four others, including socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of multiple counts of murder charges for their involvement in the attack.

Life Behind Bars

Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior incarcerated woman – she has reformed, friends and her legal team have reported. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her behavior record is spotless, her attorney noted, which was one of the reasons the parole board recommended her for release.

The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the offenses. Previously, she stated: “I wish to express my deep regret I am for all the pain and suffering that I caused when I took the lives that I did … I strive daily to make amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”

Past Abuse and Reform

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

Similar Instances

The governor has previously denied parole for other former Manson followers. Leslie Van Houten was freed from California prison in recent years after over five decades when a court of appeals reversed the governor's ruling to block her parole.