Manson Follower Patricia Krenwinkel Recommended for Parole – Again
A Second Chance for a Manson Cult Member? Patricia Krenwinkel's Parole Recommended
In a stunning development, California's state parole board has once again recommended parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, a notorious follower of the late cult leader Charles Manson. This marks the second time the board has reached this decision, bringing the prospect of her release from prison after decades of incarceration closer to reality. The recommendation, delivered on Friday, will now face review by the state’s governor, Gavin Newsom, who has the final say.
Who is Patricia Krenwinkel and Why is This Significant?
Krenwinkel, now 74 years old, was a key figure in Manson’s “Family,” a group of followers who carried out a series of gruesome murders in the summer of 1969. She was convicted of first-degree murder for her role in the deaths of Leno and Rosemary LaBianca, a wealthy couple brutally murdered in their Los Angeles home. She was also found guilty of conspiracy to commit murder in connection with the infamous Tate-LaBianca killings. Krenwinkel, along with other Manson followers, has spent nearly five decades behind bars, becoming a symbol of the cult’s horrific crimes and the devastating impact of Manson's manipulative influence.
The Parole Board's Reasoning & Krenwinkel's Transformation
The parole board's decision is based on a thorough evaluation of Krenwinkel's rehabilitation and behavior during her lengthy imprisonment. Board members noted her expressions of remorse, her participation in therapy, and her demonstrated understanding of the harm she caused. They acknowledged that while she committed heinous acts, she has undergone significant personal transformation over the years. They emphasized that denying parole repeatedly, despite evidence of rehabilitation, could be seen as a form of cruel and unusual punishment.
Governor Newsom's Role and Potential Outcomes
Governor Newsom now has 30 days to review the parole board's recommendation. He can approve it, sending Krenwinkel to parole supervision, or he can reject it, keeping her incarcerated. Newsom has a history of being cautious regarding parole for individuals convicted of violent crimes. He previously rejected parole for other Manson followers, including Sirhan Sirhan, the assassin of Robert F. Kennedy. His decision in this case will undoubtedly draw significant public attention and scrutiny.
Public Reaction and the Ongoing Debate
The news of Krenwinkel's parole recommendation has sparked a range of reactions. Victims’ families have voiced strong opposition, arguing that she should never be released and that her actions were too horrific to ever be forgiven. Supporters of her release argue that she has served a substantial sentence and deserves a chance at redemption. The case highlights the complex and often emotionally charged debate surrounding parole for individuals convicted of high-profile crimes.
What Happens Next?
The coming weeks will be crucial as Governor Newsom deliberates. His decision will not only impact Krenwinkel's future but will also serve as a significant statement on California’s approach to rehabilitation, justice, and the enduring legacy of Charles Manson and his followers. The possibility of her release, even under strict parole conditions, continues to be a source of profound debate and concern.