California's Governor Blocks Parole for Manson Follower Longtime Inmate
Gavin Newsom has once more refused release for the convicted inmate, who has spent over half a century in prison for her involvement in the 1969 murders orchestrated by the cult leader.
Governor's Decision Sparks Backlash
Nearly five months after the state parole panel deemed the 77-year-old fit for release, Newsom reversed the ruling and stated that Krenwinkel “currently represents an unacceptable risk to society if released from prison at this time.”
It was the second time Newsom has blocked her release, and the move was met with strong opposition from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who claimed the governor opted for “politics over people” and failed to consider the mistreatment she endured from the cult figure.
“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has nothing to do with the record of her transformation or the danger she presents,” stated her attorney, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the facts and the governing regulations.”
Case History of the Murders
Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actress Sharon Tate and four others, including socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of multiple counts of first-degree murder for their roles in the attack.
Life Behind Bars
Over many years in prison – she is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has reformed, friends and her legal team stated. Krenwinkel has earned college degrees and her behavior record is spotless, her attorney noted, which was a key factor the panel recommended her for release.
Krenwinkel has shown regret for her role in the offenses. In 2022, she said: “I wish to express how terribly sorry I am for all the pain and suffering that I created when I took the lives that I did … I try every day to make amends … [and] focus on self-improvement.”
Past Abuse and Reform
An earlier inquiry by the parole board revealed she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her lawyer said in a statement, stating that she has found her “own identity, independence, and moral compass”.
Similar Instances
Newsom has previously denied parole for other Manson followers. Another follower was freed from state custody in 2023 after over five decades when a court of appeals overturned the governor's ruling to block her parole.
