On December the 2nd 1969, Patricia was indicted for seven counts of first degree murder and one count conspiracy to commit murder.  She was found guilty and sentenced to death on the 29th of March 1971, which was later commuted to life when the death penalty was abolished in 1972.

During her trial, Patricia described her time at the Spahn Ranch.  "We were just like wood nymphs and wood creatures.  We would run through the woods with flowers in our hair, and Charlie would have a small flute."  She spent much of her time at the ranch caring for the children of other family members.