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Newsom Can Block Krenwinkel’s Parole After Board Vote

By Drooid · Oct 9, 2026, 5:14 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Governor Gavin Newsom can block Patricia Krenwinkel’s parole after the California parole board’s recommendation.
The parole board preliminarily granted Krenwinkel parole on Oct. 6, during her 18th hearing.
Los Angeles prosecutors argue Krenwinkel still poses an unreasonable danger to public safety.
Attorneys cite her clean record, low-risk evaluations, college degree and service-dog training.
The board’s decision marks its third parole approval, and Newsom previously reversed 2022 and Oct. 2025 grants.

History

Historical Context

Since Governor Ronald Reagan’s 1971 emphasis on tough criminal policy—evidenced by the parole board’s rejection of 85 % of violent-crime petitions and his opposition to capital-punishment reforms—California has maintained strong executive oversight of parole. Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2024 denial of parole for Manson Family member Patricia Krenwinkel continues that legacy of gubernatorial control over high-profile inmates.

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Story summary

Governor Gavin Newsom can block Patricia Krenwinkel’s parole after the California parole board’s recommendation.
The parole board preliminarily granted Krenwinkel parole on Oct. 6, during her 18th hearing.
Los Angeles prosecutors argue Krenwinkel still poses an unreasonable danger to public safety.
Attorneys cite her clean record, low-risk evaluations, college degree and service-dog training.
The board’s decision marks its third parole approval, and Newsom previously reversed 2022 and Oct. 2025 grants.

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