California's Governor Blocks Parole for Manson Follower Longtime Inmate
The governor has once more rejected release for the convicted inmate, who has spent over five decades behind bars for her role in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by the cult leader.
Governor's Decision Sparks Backlash
Months after the state parole panel found the 77-year-old fit for freedom, Newsom reversed the ruling and declared that the inmate “currently represents an unreasonable danger to the public if freed from prison at this time.”
It was the second time the governor has blocked her release, and the move was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who argued the governor chose “political motives over human considerations” and overlooked the abuse she endured from the cult figure.
“The governor's decision of her parole approval has no connection to the evidence of her transformation or the risk she poses,” said her attorney, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the facts and the governing regulations.”
Background of the Murders
Krenwinkel was 21 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 following night killed grocer Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary LaBianca. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were convicted of seven counts of first-degree murder for their involvement in the crimes.
Life Behind Bars
Over many years behind bars – she is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has turned her life around, supporters and attorneys have reported. She has obtained higher education and her behavior record is clean, legal counsel said, which was a key factor the panel supported her parole.
The inmate has expressed remorse for her role 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 ended the lives that I did … I try every day to live amends … [and] focus on self-improvement.”
Previous Mistreatment and Reform
An earlier inquiry by the parole board revealed she endured physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her attorney said in a statement, adding that she has developed her “personal identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.
Similar Instances
The governor has previously blocked parole for other former cult members. Leslie Van Houten was released from state custody in recent years after 53 years when a court of appeals reversed the governor’s decision to block her parole.
