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Gavin Newsom has once more denied release for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has spent over half a century behind bars for her role in the 1969 murders masterminded by the cult leader.

Parole Reversal Draws Criticism

Nearly five months after California’s parole board deemed the elderly suitable for freedom, the governor overturned the decision and declared that the inmate “currently represents an unreasonable danger to society if released from prison at this time.”

It was the second time Newsom has prevented her parole, and the decision was met with strong opposition from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who argued the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and failed to consider the mistreatment she endured from the cult figure.

“The governor's decision of Pat’s grant has nothing to do with the record of her transformation or the danger she presents,” said Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the facts and the controlling law.”

Background of the Murders

The inmate was 21 when the Manson's followers committed the killings of actress Sharon Tate and several others, among them socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. In 1971, she and fellow cult members were convicted of seven counts of murder charges for their roles in the crimes.

Prison Transformation

Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior incarcerated woman – she has reformed, friends and her legal team stated. She has earned college degrees and her conduct is spotless, her attorney noted, which was one of the reasons the parole board recommended her for release.

Krenwinkel has expressed remorse for her actions in the offenses. Previously, 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 being a better person.”

Previous Mistreatment and Reform

An earlier inquiry by the parole board found she endured abuse in multiple forms by the cult leader, her attorney said in a statement, stating that she has found her “personal identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.

Similar Instances

Newsom has previously blocked parole for other Manson followers. Another follower was released from California prison in recent years after 53 years when a court of appeals overturned the governor’s decision to deny her release.