Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel Granted Parole for Third Time

Patricia Krenwinkel, a former follower of Charles Manson, was granted parole on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, marking the third instance of her approval for release by California's board of parole hearings. Krenwinkel, aged 78, has spent nearly six decades incarcerated for her involvement in the infamous Tate-LaBianca murders that occurred in Los Angeles. This latest parole grant follows two previous decisions that were overturned by California Governor Gavin Newsom. In both prior instances, Governor Newsom reversed the parole board's recommendations for Krenwinkel's release, denying her freedom. Krenwinkel's legal team is now actively advocating for Governor Newsom to permit this most recent parole ruling to take effect, allowing her to be released from prison. The Tate-LaBianca murders, which took place in August 1969, were a series of brutal killings orchestrated by Charles Manson and carried out by his followers. Krenwinkel was convicted of first-degree murder for her participation in these events. Her case has been a subject of significant public attention due to its connection to the Manson Family cult and the high-profile nature of the crimes. The parole board's decision to grant parole is based on assessments of an inmate's rehabilitation, remorse, and current risk to public safety. Krenwinkel's attorneys have emphasized her efforts toward rehabilitation during her long period of incarceration. The governor's role in overturning parole decisions highlights the political and public scrutiny involved in such cases, particularly those with a history as notorious as Krenwinkel's. The governor's office has the authority to review and either uphold or reject parole grants recommended by the board. The outcome of this latest decision will determine whether Krenwinkel will be released after serving the majority of her life sentence. The legal process for parole involves extensive review and consideration of various factors, including victim impact statements and the inmate's institutional record. Krenwinkel's case represents a prolonged legal and correctional journey, with her repeated parole hearings reflecting the complexities of assessing readiness for reintegration into society after such a lengthy and severe sentence. The governor's final decision is anticipated to be a significant development in this decades-long legal saga.