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Gavin Newsom has once more rejected parole for the convicted inmate, who has served over half a century in prison for her involvement in the 1969 murders orchestrated by Charles Manson.

Governor's Decision Draws Backlash

Months after the state parole panel deemed the elderly fit for release, Newsom reversed the ruling and declared that Krenwinkel “currently poses an unacceptable risk to the public if freed from prison at this time.”

It was the second instance Newsom has prevented her parole, and the decision was met with sharp criticism from Krenwinkel’s longtime attorney, who claimed the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the abuse she endured from Manson.

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

Case History of the Murders

The inmate was 21 when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actress Sharon Tate and four others, including heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder for their roles in the attack.

Life Behind Bars

Over many years behind bars – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has turned her life around, supporters and attorneys have reported. She has obtained higher education and her conduct is spotless, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the parole board supported her parole.

Krenwinkel has shown regret for her role in the offenses. Previously, she said: “I wish to express 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 live amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”

Past Abuse and Rehabilitation

A 2017 investigation by the authorities found she endured abuse in multiple forms by the cult leader, her lawyer noted, stating that she has developed her “personal identity, independence, and moral compass”.

Similar Instances

The governor has previously blocked parole for other Manson followers. Leslie Van Houten was released from California prison in recent years after over five decades when a state appeals court overturned the governor's ruling to deny her release.