Gavin Newsom has once more denied release for the convicted inmate, who has spent over half a century in prison for her involvement in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by Charles Manson.
Governor's Decision Draws Criticism
Nearly five months after California’s parole board found the 77-year-old fit for freedom, the governor overturned the ruling and declared that Krenwinkel “currently represents an unacceptable risk to society if released from prison at this time.”
It was the second time Newsom has prevented her release, and the move was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who claimed the governor opted for “politics over people” and failed to consider the mistreatment 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,” said her attorney, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the evidence and the governing regulations.”
Background of the Crimes
Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actor Sharon Tate and several others, including heiress Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the following night killed Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were found guilty of multiple counts of murder charges for their involvement in the attack.
Life Behind Bars
In her decades in prison – she is California’s longest serving female prisoner – she has turned her life around, friends and her legal team have reported. Krenwinkel has obtained higher education and her conduct is clean, legal counsel noted, which was one of the reasons the parole board supported her parole.
The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the offenses. Previously, she said: “I wish to express my deep regret I am for all the pain and suffering that I caused when I ended the lives that I did … I strive daily to live amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”
Past Abuse and Reform
A 2017 investigation by the parole board revealed she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her attorney said in a statement, stating that she has found her “own identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.
Similar Instances
The governor has previously blocked parole for other cult members. Leslie Van Houten was freed from California prison in recent years after 53 years when a court of appeals overturned the governor's ruling to block her parole.
