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Gavin Newsom again rejected release for the convicted inmate, who has served more than five decades in prison for her involvement in the 1969 murders orchestrated by the cult leader.

Parole Reversal Sparks Criticism

Months after California’s parole board deemed the 77-year-old suitable for release, Newsom reversed the decision and stated that Krenwinkel “currently poses an unacceptable risk to society if released from prison at this time.”

It was the second time Newsom has blocked her release, and the decision was met with strong opposition from her legal representative, who claimed the governor chose “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the abuse she endured from the cult figure.

“The governor's decision of Pat’s grant has nothing to do with the record of how much she’s changed or the danger she presents,” stated her attorney, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, in opposition to the facts and the governing regulations.”

Background of the Murders

The inmate was 21 when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actor Sharon Tate and four others, among them heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening killed Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the crimes.

Prison Transformation

Over many years in prison – she is the state's most senior incarcerated woman – she has turned her life around, supporters and attorneys have reported. She has earned college degrees and her conduct is spotless, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the panel recommended her for release.

Krenwinkel has shown regret for her role in the crimes. Previously, she stated: “I want to say how terribly sorry I am for all the pain and suffering that I created when I ended the lives that I did … I try every day to live amends … [and] focus on self-improvement.”

Previous Mistreatment and Reform

A 2017 investigation by the parole board found she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by the cult leader, her attorney noted, adding that she has developed her “own identity, self-reliance, and moral compass”.

Similar Instances

Newsom has previously blocked release for other former cult members. Leslie Van Houten was freed from state custody in recent years after 53 years when a court of appeals reversed the governor’s decision to block her parole.