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The governor has once more refused parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served more than five decades behind bars for her involvement in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings orchestrated by the cult leader.

Governor's Decision Sparks Criticism

Months after the state parole panel deemed the 77-year-old suitable for freedom, the governor overturned the decision and declared that the inmate “currently poses an unacceptable risk to the public if freed from custody at this time.”

It was the second instance the governor has blocked her parole, and the move was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who claimed the governor chose “political motives over human considerations” and failed to consider the abuse she endured from Manson.

“Newsom’s reversal of Pat’s grant has nothing to do with the record of her transformation or the risk she poses,” stated her attorney, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the facts and the controlling law.”

Background of the Murders

Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actor Sharon Tate and several others, including heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of multiple counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the crimes.

Life Behind Bars

Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has turned her life around, supporters and attorneys stated. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her behavior record is clean, legal counsel noted, which was one of the reasons the parole board recommended her for release.

The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the crimes. Previously, she stated: “I wish to express how terribly sorry I am for the harm and anguish that I caused when I took the lives that I did … I strive daily to live amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.”

Past Abuse and Reform

A 2017 investigation by the parole board found she experienced abuse in multiple forms by Charles Manson, her lawyer noted, adding that she has developed her “own identity, self-reliance, and ethical guidance”.

Other Cases

The governor has previously denied release for other former Manson followers. Leslie Van Houten was freed from California prison in recent years after 53 years when a court of appeals reversed the governor’s decision to deny her release.