GRAND JUNCTION – Tina Peters, the former Mesa County Clerk and Recorder, was sentenced to nine years in prison on Thursday for her involvement in a 2021 breach of her county’s election system. The judge described her as a “charlatan,” emphasizing that she profited from her deception and would likely continue her actions if left free.
Peters will spend between 60 days and six months in the Mesa County jail before transitioning to the state prison system. Following her sentencing, she was handcuffed and led away, raising her hands in a farewell gesture to supporters in the crowded courtroom.
Judge Matthew Barrett delivered the sentence after stating that Peters had exploited lies for personal gain. He expressed concern that she would repeat her actions if not incarcerated. Barrett pointed out the extensive damage her crimes inflicted on the public’s trust in elections, asserting that “prison is the only place” for someone whose actions have created such significant harm.
Peters, 68, was convicted on multiple counts including attempts to influence a public official, conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation, and official misconduct. She was acquitted of three other charges related to impersonation and identity theft.
Although Peters did not take the stand during her trial, she provided a lengthy statement before sentencing, repeating her claims of a widespread conspiracy to steal elections. Judge Barrett interrupted her at one point, deeming her remarks irrelevant to the case.
During her statement, Peters attempted to elicit sympathy by discussing her deceased son and ailing family members. She also sought leniency for her supposed integrity, claiming she had lived with “faith and honesty” despite the serious charges against her.
Supporters spoke on her behalf during the hearing, including a pastor who suggested she be granted probation to serve a community role out of state. Peters mentioned her health issues and highlighted a faith-based program as an option for rehabilitation.
Key witnesses for the prosecution, including local officials, described the extensive repercussions of Peters’ actions, which began when she questioned election results after a municipal election. This led to a conspiracy involving national election fraud theorists and resulted in illegally accessing and copying election system data.
The data stolen from the election system was later disseminated at a conference organized by MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, although no evidence of fraud was proved. Following the breach, the incident caused significant disruption in Mesa County, leading to costly investigations and administrative changes.
Measures have since been implemented to strengthen state laws governing election equipment tampering and access security in response to Peters’ actions.
Despite her conviction, Peters garnered a following in the election-denier movement and has continued to seek support for her defense throughout the proceedings. Efforts for an appeal are already in the works by her attorneys.