Manson killer Patricia Krenwinkel, 78, is granted parole for a third time after nearly 57 years behind bars

From the Newshound archive · first published 8 October 2026.

Patricia Krenwinkel, convicted of seven murders as a member of Charles Manson's cult, has been recommended for parole at her 18th suitability hearing — the third time a California panel has approved her release. Newsom reversed her last parole grant in October 2025, declaring she posed an 'unreasonable danger to society', and prosecutors are again pressing the governor's office to keep her locked up. The decision will not become final for at least 120 days, and Newsom will then have a further 30 days to block it.

Krenwinkel was convicted of killing seven people in the notorious 1969 Tate-LaBianca murders, including pregnant actress Sharon Tate.

Newsom previously praised her 'efforts to improve herself' — including earning multiple degrees — but still reversed her release last year.

If Newsom blocks her again, Krenwinkel will face another hearing within 18 months.