🔗 Share this article California's Governor Again Denies Parole for Manson Follower Longtime Inmate Gavin Newsom has once more refused release for the convicted inmate, who has served more than half a century in prison for her role in the notorious murders orchestrated by the cult leader. Governor's Decision Sparks Backlash Months after the state parole panel deemed the elderly fit for release, Newsom reversed the ruling and stated that the inmate “currently poses an unreasonable danger to society if released from prison at this time.” It was the second time Newsom has blocked her release, and the move was met with sharp criticism from her legal representative, who argued the governor opted for “politics over people” and failed to consider the mistreatment she suffered from Manson. “Newsom’s reversal of her parole approval has no connection to the record of her transformation or the risk she poses,” stated Keith Wattley, her legal counsel. “It's entirely political, directly contrary to the facts and the governing regulations.” Case History of the Murders Krenwinkel was twenty-one when the Manson's followers committed the murders of actor Sharon Tate and several others, including socialite Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring, and the next evening murdered Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary LaBianca. In 1971, she and other Manson followers were found guilty of multiple counts of first-degree murder for their roles in the attack. Life Behind Bars Over many years in prison – Krenwinkel is the state's most senior incarcerated woman – she has turned her life around, supporters and attorneys stated. She has earned college degrees and her behavior record is spotless, her attorney said, which was one of the reasons the parole board supported her parole. The inmate has expressed remorse for her role in the offenses. Previously, she said: “I wish to express my deep regret I am for the harm and anguish that I created when I took the lives that I did … I strive daily to make amends … [and] work toward self-improvement.” Previous Mistreatment and Rehabilitation An earlier inquiry by the authorities found she experienced physical, emotional and sexual violence by Charles Manson, her attorney said in a statement, adding that she has found her “own identity, independence, and ethical guidance”. Similar Instances The governor has previously denied parole for other former Manson followers. Leslie Van Houten was released from California prison in recent years after over five decades when a court of appeals reversed the governor's ruling to block her parole.