🔗 Share this article California's Governor Blocks Early Release for Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel The governor has once more refused parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has spent more than five decades behind bars for her involvement in the notorious murders orchestrated by the cult leader. Parole Reversal Sparks Criticism Months after California’s parole board found the 77-year-old fit for release, Newsom overturned the ruling and stated that the inmate “currently poses an unacceptable risk to society if freed from prison at this time.” It was the second instance the governor has blocked her release, and the move was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who claimed the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the mistreatment she endured from the cult figure. “Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has nothing to do with the evidence of how much she’s changed or the danger she poses,” stated Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, in opposition to the facts and the governing regulations.” Case History of the Murders Krenwinkel was twenty-one when the Manson cult committed the killings of actor Sharon Tate and several others, including socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were convicted of multiple counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the crimes. Life Behind Bars Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior incarcerated woman – she has reformed, supporters and attorneys have reported. She has earned college degrees and her conduct is clean, her attorney noted, which was a key factor the panel recommended her for release. Krenwinkel has shown regret for her actions in the offenses. Previously, she stated: “I wish to express how terribly sorry I am for the harm and anguish that I caused when I took the lives that I did … I try every day to live amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.” Previous Mistreatment and Reform An earlier inquiry by the authorities found she endured abuse in multiple forms by the cult leader, her lawyer said in a statement, stating that she has found her “own identity, self-reliance, and moral compass”. Other Cases The governor has previously blocked release for other former Manson followers. Another follower was released from state custody in recent years after 53 years when a court of appeals overturned the governor’s decision to deny her release.