Krenwinkel Wins Third Parole Grant, Faces Newsom's Veto
Patricia Krenwinkel, 78, received a preliminary parole grant on Tuesday at her 18th hearing, marking the third time California officials have recommended her release. The decision is not final and must pass a 120-day review by the Board of Parole Hearings and a 30-day review by Governor Gavin Newsom. Newsom has previously reversed two of her parole grants, citing public safety risks despite her rehabilitation efforts. Krenwinkel, convicted in 1971 for the 1969 Tate-LaBianca murders, has served over 56 years in prison. Her attorneys argue she poses low risk and has undergone extensive rehabilitation, while victims' families and prosecutors oppose her release, citing the brutality of the crimes. The decision now enters a review period, with Newsom expected to make a final call.
Key points
- Krenwinkel was preliminarily granted parole on Tuesday at her 18th hearing, the third time she has been recommended for release.
- The grant is subject to a 120-day review by the Board of Parole Hearings and a 30-day review by Governor Gavin Newsom.
- Newsom has previously reversed two of Krenwinkel's parole grants, citing public safety risks despite her rehabilitation efforts.
- Krenwinkel, 78, has served over 56 years in prison for her role in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca murders.
- Her attorneys argue she poses low risk and has undergone extensive rehabilitation, while victims' families and prosecutors oppose her release.
Background
Krenwinkel was convicted in 1971 for her role in the 1969 Tate-LaBianca murders, which claimed the lives of actress Sharon Tate and others. She was originally sentenced to death, but the penalty was reduced to life in prison under a California Supreme Court ruling that invalidated all death sentences before 1972. In 2023, Leslie Van Houten, another Manson follower, was granted parole and released after an appeals court overruled Newsom's denial. Krenwinkel's case has drawn attention to debates about elderly inmates and rehabilitation in California prisons.
How outlets are covering it
The Los Angeles Times and The Guardian emphasize Krenwinkel's extensive rehabilitation efforts, including earning a college degree and maintaining a clean disciplinary record, while noting that Newsom has previously reversed her parole grants due to public safety concerns. The New York Post and NBC Los Angeles focus on the procedural aspects of the parole decision, highlighting the 120-day review period and Newsom's potential veto. The Guardian also notes that Krenwinkel's attorneys argue Newsom is yielding to political pressure, while victims' families, including Debra Tate, oppose her release, citing the brutality of the crimes. All sources agree that the decision is not final and will require Newsom's approval.
Why it matters
Krenwinkel's parole decision highlights ongoing debates about elderly inmates, rehabilitation, and the role of governors in parole decisions. The case also draws attention to the long-term consequences of the Manson Family murders and the impact on victims' families. Newsom's decision could set a precedent for other high-profile parole cases in California.
What to watch
The preliminary parole decision will undergo a 120-day review by the Board of Parole Hearings, followed by a 30-day review by Governor Gavin Newsom. If Newsom reverses the decision, Krenwinkel will be scheduled for another hearing within 18 months. If the decision stands, Krenwinkel will be released from prison.
- Manson follower Patricia Krenwinkel, murderer imprisoned half a century, is recommended for parole Los Angeles Times
- Patricia Krenwinkel, former Manson follower, granted parole for third time The Guardian
- Parole Board OKs Release of One of Manson's Killers Newser
- Manson killer Patricia Krenwinkel granted parole again after nearly 6 decades behind bars New York Post
- Former Charles Manson follower Patricia Krenwinkel again granted parole NBC Los Angeles
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