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

Parole Reversal Sparks Backlash

Nearly five months after California’s parole board found the 77-year-old fit for release, Newsom reversed the decision and stated that the inmate “currently represents an unreasonable danger to the public if freed from custody at this time.”

It was the second time Newsom has prevented her release, and the decision was met with strong opposition from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who argued the governor opted for “politics over people” and overlooked the abuse she endured from the cult figure.

“The governor's decision of her parole approval has no connection to the evidence of her transformation or the danger she presents,” said Keith Wattley, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the facts and the controlling law.”

Case History of the Crimes

The inmate was twenty-one when the Manson cult carried out the murders of actor Sharon Tate and four others, including socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening killed Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder for their roles in the crimes.

Prison Transformation

In her decades in prison – she is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has reformed, supporters and attorneys stated. She has obtained higher education and her conduct is spotless, legal counsel noted, which was one of the reasons the parole board recommended her for release.

Krenwinkel has shown regret for her role in the offenses. 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 strive daily to live amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”

Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation

A 2017 investigation by the parole board found she experienced abuse in multiple forms by Charles Manson, her attorney noted, stating that she has developed her “personal identity, self-reliance, and ethical guidance”.

Similar Instances

Newsom has previously blocked parole for other former Manson followers. Another follower was freed from state custody in 2023 after 53 years when a state appeals court overturned the governor's ruling to block her parole.