California's Governor Again Denies Parole for Cult Member Longtime Inmate
Gavin Newsom again refused release for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has spent more than five decades in prison for her role in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by the cult leader.
Parole Reversal Draws Criticism
Months after the state parole panel deemed the elderly suitable for release, Newsom overturned the decision and declared that Krenwinkel “currently poses an unreasonable danger to the public if freed from custody at this time.”
It was the second instance Newsom has blocked her parole, and the move was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who argued the governor chose “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the mistreatment she suffered from Manson.
“The governor's decision of Pat’s grant has nothing to do with the record of how much she’s changed or the risk she presents,” said Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the facts and the governing regulations.”
Background of the Crimes
The inmate was 21 when the Manson cult carried out the murders of actor Sharon Tate and several others, including socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of seven counts of murder charges for their roles in the attack.
Life Behind Bars
Over many years behind bars – she is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has turned her life around, friends and her legal team have reported. She has earned college degrees and her behavior record is clean, legal counsel noted, which was one of the reasons the parole board supported her parole.
The inmate has expressed remorse for her role in the offenses. Previously, she stated: “I wish to express my deep regret 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] focus on being a better person.”
Previous Mistreatment and Reform
An earlier inquiry by the authorities revealed she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by the cult leader, her lawyer noted, adding that she has found her “personal identity, self-reliance, and ethical guidance”.
Other Cases
The governor has previously denied parole for other cult members. Leslie Van Houten was released from California prison in recent years after over five decades when a state appeals court overturned the governor's ruling to block her parole.
