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The governor again refused parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, who has served over five decades in prison for her involvement in the notorious Tate-LaBianca killings masterminded by Charles Manson.

Governor's Decision Draws Criticism

Nearly five months after the state parole panel deemed the elderly fit for freedom, the governor reversed the ruling and stated that the inmate “currently represents an unacceptable risk to society if released from custody at this time.”

This marks the second time Newsom has prevented 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 failed to consider the abuse she suffered from the cult figure.

“The governor's decision of Pat’s grant has no connection to the evidence of her transformation or the risk she poses,” stated Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the facts and the governing regulations.”

Background of the Murders

The inmate was twenty-one when the Manson cult carried out the killings of actor Sharon Tate and four others, among them socialite Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the following night murdered Leno LaBianca and his spouse, Rosemary. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of seven counts of first-degree murder for their roles in the attack.

Prison Transformation

In her decades behind bars – Krenwinkel is California’s longest serving incarcerated woman – she has reformed, friends and her legal team have reported. Krenwinkel has earned college degrees and her behavior record is spotless, legal counsel said, which was one of the reasons the parole board recommended her for release.

The inmate has shown regret for her role in the crimes. Previously, she said: “I want to say how terribly sorry I am for the harm and anguish that I created when I took the lives that I did … I try every day to live amends … [and] focus on being a better person.”

Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation

An earlier inquiry by the parole board revealed she endured abuse in multiple forms by the cult leader, her attorney said in a statement, stating that she has found her “personal identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.

Similar Instances

Newsom has previously blocked release for other Manson followers. Leslie Van Houten was released from California prison in recent years after 53 years when a court of appeals overturned the governor's ruling to block her parole.