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Gavin Newsom again denied release for the convicted inmate, who has spent over half a century behind bars for her role in the notorious murders masterminded by the cult leader.

Parole Reversal Sparks Backlash

Nearly five months after the state parole panel deemed the elderly fit for freedom, the governor reversed the decision and declared that the inmate “currently represents an unacceptable risk to society if freed from prison at this time.”

It was the second instance Newsom has blocked her release, and the move was met with strong opposition from her legal representative, who argued the governor opted for “politics over people” and failed to consider the mistreatment she endured from Manson.

“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has nothing to do with the record of her transformation or the risk she presents,” stated her attorney, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the evidence and the governing regulations.”

Case History of the Murders

The inmate was twenty-one when the Manson cult carried out the killings of actor Sharon Tate and several others, including heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary LaBianca. By 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of multiple counts of murder charges for their involvement in the crimes.

Prison Transformation

Over many years in prison – she is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has turned her life around, supporters and attorneys stated. She has obtained higher education and her behavior record is spotless, her attorney noted, which was one of the reasons the parole board supported her parole.

Krenwinkel has shown regret for her actions in the crimes. Previously, she said: “I want to say how terribly sorry I am for the harm and anguish that I created when I ended the lives that I did … I strive daily to make amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”

Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation

An earlier inquiry by the authorities revealed she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her attorney said in a statement, stating that she has developed her “personal identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.

Other Cases

The governor has previously denied parole for other cult members. Another follower was released from state custody in 2023 after 53 years when a state appeals court overturned the governor's ruling to block her parole.