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The governor has once more denied release for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has spent over half a century behind bars for her involvement in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings orchestrated by the cult leader.

Governor's Decision Sparks Criticism

Months after California’s parole board deemed the 77-year-old fit for freedom, the governor reversed the ruling and stated that the inmate “currently represents an unreasonable danger to the public if released from custody at this time.”

This marks the second time the governor has prevented her parole, and the move was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who argued the governor chose “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the mistreatment she endured from Manson.

“The governor's decision of her parole approval has no connection to the evidence of how much she’s changed or the risk she presents,” said Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, in opposition to the evidence and the governing regulations.”

Background of the Crimes

The inmate was 21 when the Manson cult committed the murders of actress Sharon Tate and several others, including socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening killed grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. In 1971, she and fellow cult members were convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the attack.

Prison Transformation

In her decades behind bars – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has reformed, friends and her legal team stated. She has earned college degrees and her behavior record is clean, legal counsel noted, which was a key factor the panel supported her parole.

Krenwinkel has shown regret for her role in the offenses. Previously, she stated: “I want to say how terribly sorry I am for the harm and anguish that I caused when I ended the lives that I did … I strive daily to make amends … [and] work toward being a better person.”

Past Abuse and Reform

An earlier inquiry by the parole board revealed she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by the cult leader, her attorney noted, adding that she has found her “personal identity, self-reliance, and ethical guidance”.

Similar Instances

Newsom has previously denied release for other former cult members. Leslie Van Houten was released from California prison in recent years after 53 years when a court of appeals overturned the governor's ruling to deny her release.