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Gavin Newsom has once more denied release for the convicted inmate, who has spent more than five decades in prison for her role in the 1969 murders masterminded by Charles Manson.

Governor's Decision Draws Backlash

Nearly five months after California’s parole board found the elderly suitable for release, Newsom reversed the ruling and declared that the inmate “currently poses an unacceptable risk to the public if released from custody at this time.”

This marks the second instance Newsom has blocked her parole, and the move was met with strong opposition from her legal representative, who argued the governor opted for “politics over people” and overlooked the abuse she endured from the cult figure.

“Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has no connection to the record of how much she’s changed or the danger she poses,” said Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It is 100% political, directly contrary to the evidence and the governing regulations.”

Background of the Murders

The inmate was twenty-one when the Manson's followers committed the murders of actress Sharon Tate and four others, including heiress Abigail Folger and celebrity stylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered grocer Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary. By 1971, she and fellow cult members were found guilty of multiple counts of murder charges for their roles in the crimes.

Life Behind Bars

Over many years in prison – she is the state's most senior female prisoner – she has turned her life around, supporters and attorneys have reported. She has obtained higher education and her behavior record is spotless, legal counsel noted, which was one of the reasons the panel supported her parole.

Krenwinkel has expressed remorse for her actions in the offenses. Previously, she stated: “I wish to express 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 self-improvement.”

Past Abuse and Reform

An earlier inquiry by the authorities found she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her lawyer said in a statement, stating that she has found her “personal identity, independence, and ethical guidance”.

Other Cases

The governor has previously blocked release for other Manson followers. Another follower was freed from California prison in recent years after over five decades when a court of appeals overturned the governor's ruling to block her parole.