Former Charles Manson follower is recommended for parole - NBC News

California Parole Board Recommends Release of Patricia Krenwinkel

On Friday, a California state parole board recommended parole for Patricia Krenwinkel, one of the most notorious followers of Charles Manson. This marks the second time that the parole board has considered Krenwinkel's request for early release from prison.

Background on Patricia Krenwinkel and the Manson Family

Patricia Krenwinkel was a member of Charles Manson's cult-like group, which gained notoriety in the late 1960s for its brutal crimes. In 1969, the Manson Family committed several gruesome murders, including the infamous Tate-LaBianca killings, which left nine people dead.

Krenwinkel was arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with the LaBianca murder, as well as other counts of murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy. Her trial was highly publicized due to her involvement with Manson, who was also on trial for his role in the murders.

In 1972, Krenwinkel was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. However, California abolished the death penalty in 1972, and her sentence was commuted to life in prison without parole.

The Parole Board's Decision

On Friday, the California state parole board recommended that Krenwinkle be granted parole for the second time. The decision is subject to approval by the Governor of California or a court of appeals, depending on whether an appeal has been filed.

According to the parole board's report, Krenwinkel has demonstrated satisfactory behavior while incarcerated and has participated in educational and vocational programs to address her mental health needs. She has also completed a 30-hour per week treatment program aimed at reducing her symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder and borderline personality traits.

The parole board noted that Krenwinkle is no longer a threat to public safety and has expressed remorse for her past actions, stating that she is "deeply sorry" for the harm caused by Manson's actions. However, some members of the parole board expressed concerns about the potential risks of releasing an individual with such a history.

Reaction to the Decision

The decision has sparked intense debate among lawmakers, law enforcement officials, and victims' families. Some argue that Krenwinkle's release is unfair and puts innocent lives at risk, while others believe that she has served her time sufficiently and should be allowed to reintegrate into society.

"This decision is a slap in the face to the victims of Manson's crimes," said Nancy Garrido, whose husband was kidnapped and murdered by the Manson Family. "Patricia Krenwinkle deserves to rot in prison for what she did."

On the other hand, some advocates argue that Krenwinkel has spent decades behind bars and is now a different person. She has reportedly expressed remorse and has sought treatment for her mental health issues.

"The parole board's decision takes into account Krenwinkle's extensive history of rehabilitation efforts while incarcerated," said James D. Parker, who leads the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation's Treatment Program. "This demonstrates that she is committed to making amends for her past actions."

The Path Forward

Now that the parole board has recommended release, the decision will be subject to review by the Governor of California or a court of appeals. If an appeal is filed, the process could take several months or even years.

Krenwinkle's supporters have vowed to continue advocating for her release and have promised to work with law enforcement officials to ensure that she does not pose a risk to public safety.

Meanwhile, lawmakers are calling for increased transparency and accountability in the parole review process. Some propose measures such as longer reviews of parole applications or more stringent background checks for applicants.

As the decision hangs in limbo, one thing is clear: Patricia Krenwinkel's release will have significant implications for victims' families, law enforcement officials, and the broader community. The outcome of this case serves as a reminder that justice is complex and multifaceted, and that the process of rehabilitation is never easy.

Key Questions

• What motivated Charles Manson to lead his cult-like group?
• How did Krenwinkle become involved with Manson's group?
• What specific measures will be taken to ensure public safety if Krenwinkle is released from prison?
• Should parolees serving life sentences without parole have access to early release programs?

Conclusion

Patricia Krenwinkel's potential release from prison has sparked intense debate and raised questions about the nature of justice, rehabilitation, and public safety. As the decision hangs in limbo, it is clear that this case will continue to captivate the nation's attention for years to come.

While some see Krenwinkle's release as a necessary step towards redemption, others view it as a threat to public safety. One thing is certain: Patricia Krenwinkel's story serves as a reminder of the complexities and nuances of the justice system.

As we move forward with this case, it is essential that lawmakers, law enforcement officials, and advocates work together to ensure that public safety is prioritized while also allowing for rehabilitation and redemption. The outcome of this case will serve as a testament to the power of the human spirit to change and grow, even in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Recommendations

• Increased transparency and accountability in the parole review process
• Longer reviews of parole applications or more stringent background checks for applicants
• Greater emphasis on rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing recidivism rates among parolees
• Support for victims' families through counseling services and other forms of support

Next Steps

The decision to release Patricia Krenwinkle from prison will be reviewed by the Governor of California or a court of appeals. If an appeal is filed, the process could take several months or even years.

Lawmakers are calling for increased transparency and accountability in the parole review process. Some propose measures such as longer reviews of parole applications or more stringent background checks for applicants.

Advocates will continue to push for rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing recidivism rates among parolees. Supporters of Krenwinkle will work with law enforcement officials to ensure that she does not pose a risk to public safety.

As the case continues to unfold, one thing is clear: justice is complex and multifaceted, and that the process of rehabilitation is never easy.