California's Governor Blocks Early Release for Manson Follower Longtime Inmate

The governor again rejected release for the convicted inmate, who has served more than half a century behind bars for her involvement in the 1969 murders masterminded by the cult leader.

Parole Reversal Sparks Backlash

Months after the state parole panel found the 77-year-old fit for freedom, the governor overturned the decision and stated that the inmate “currently poses an unacceptable risk to the public if released from prison at this time.”

It was the second instance the governor has prevented her release, and the decision was met with strong opposition from her legal representative, who argued the governor opted for “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the abuse she suffered from Manson.

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

Background of the Murders

The inmate was twenty-one when the Manson's followers carried out the killings of actor Sharon Tate and several others, including socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary LaBianca. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of multiple counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the attack.

Prison Transformation

Over many years behind bars – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior incarcerated woman – she has reformed, supporters and attorneys have reported. She has obtained higher education and her behavior record is spotless, her attorney noted, which was one of the reasons the panel recommended her for release.

The inmate has shown regret for her actions in the offenses. In 2022, she said: “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 try every day to make amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”

Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation

An earlier inquiry by the authorities revealed she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her attorney noted, stating that she has found her “personal identity, self-reliance, and moral compass”.

Other Cases

Newsom has previously denied parole for other cult members. Leslie Van Houten was freed from state custody in 2023 after over five decades when a state appeals court overturned the governor's ruling to block her parole.