Full Breakdown
California Governor Denies Parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, Manson Follower
10/16/2025, 3:23:14 PM
Overview of the Parole Decision
California Governor Gavin Newsom has denied parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, a former follower of Charles Manson, who has been incarcerated for over five decades for her role in the infamous 1969 Tate-LaBianca murders. This decision, announced on October 13, 2025, marks the second time Newsom has reversed a parole board's recommendation for Krenwinkel's release, citing ongoing concerns about her potential danger to society.
Background on Patricia Krenwinkel
Krenwinkel, now 77, was convicted in 1971 of seven counts of first-degree murder for her participation in the brutal killings that included actress Sharon Tate and several others. At the time of the murders, Krenwinkel was just 21 years old and a member of Manson's cult, which orchestrated the killings over two nights. Initially sentenced to death, her sentence was commuted to life in prison following a California Supreme Court ruling that invalidated all death sentences prior to 1972.
Governor's Rationale for Denial
In his written decision, Newsom acknowledged Krenwinkel's extensive rehabilitation efforts, including earning multiple college degrees and maintaining a spotless disciplinary record. However, he concluded that these positive factors were outweighed by her "deficits in self-awareness" and a "tendency to externalize blame" for her past actions. Newsom stated, "When considered as a whole, the evidence shows that she currently poses an unreasonable danger to society if released from prison at this time."
Legal and Advocacy Perspectives
Krenwinkel's attorney, Keith Wattley, criticized the governor's decision, arguing that it was politically motivated and did not reflect the evidence of her rehabilitation. Wattley emphasized that Krenwinkel is the longest-incarcerated woman in the United States and has transformed her life during her time in prison. He stated, "Patricia’s record meets that standard. She deserves to be paroled," highlighting that under California law, parole should be granted when an inmate no longer poses an unreasonable risk to public safety.
Advocates for Krenwinkel also point to her status as a survivor of domestic violence, arguing that this should be considered in her parole evaluation. They assert that Krenwinkel qualifies under provisions designed for youthful offenders and those who were coerced into criminal behavior.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the parole board had previously found Krenwinkel suitable for release in May 2025, Newsom's reversal has reignited debates over the criteria used to evaluate parole eligibility. Critics of the governor's decision argue that it fails to take into account the significant changes Krenwinkel has made in her life, while supporters of the decision emphasize the severity of her past crimes and the potential risk she poses if released.
Verbatim Quotes
- “When considered as a whole, the evidence shows that she currently poses an unreasonable danger to society if released from prison at this time,” — Gavin Newsom, Governor of California
- “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the evidence and the controlling law.” — Keith Wattley, Krenwinkel’s attorney
Krenwinkel remains incarcerated at the California Institution for Women, with her next parole hearing scheduled for May 2025.
