🔗 Share this article Gavin Newsom Again Denies Parole for Cult Member Longtime Inmate The governor has once more denied parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has spent over half a century behind bars for her role in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by the cult leader. Parole Reversal Draws Backlash Nearly five months after the state parole panel found the elderly fit for release, the governor overturned the decision and stated that the inmate “currently poses an unreasonable danger to society if freed from prison at this time.” It was the second instance the governor has blocked her parole, and the decision was met with strong opposition from her legal representative, who argued the governor opted for “politics over people” and overlooked the mistreatment she endured from the cult figure. “Newsom’s reversal of Pat’s grant has no connection to the record of her transformation or the danger she presents,” stated her attorney, Krenwinkel’s attorney. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the evidence and the controlling law.” Background of the Crimes Krenwinkel was 21 when the Manson cult carried out the killings of actress Sharon Tate and several others, including heiress Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. In 1971, she and fellow cult members were convicted of multiple counts of first-degree murder for their roles in the crimes. Prison Transformation Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has reformed, friends and her legal team stated. Krenwinkel has earned college degrees and her conduct is spotless, legal counsel noted, which was a key factor the parole board recommended her for release. Krenwinkel has shown regret for her role in the offenses. Previously, she stated: “I want to say my deep regret I am for all the pain and suffering that I caused when I ended the lives that I did … I try every day to live amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.” Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation A 2017 investigation by the authorities found she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her lawyer said in a statement, adding that she has found her “personal identity, self-reliance, and ethical guidance”. Other Cases The governor has previously blocked parole for other cult members. Another follower was freed from state custody in 2023 after over five decades when a court of appeals reversed the governor's ruling to block her parole.