Colorado Governor Jared Polis commuted the nine-year prison sentence of former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters on Friday, May 15th. According to multiple reports, Peters will be released June 1.
Key Takeaways
Colorado Governor Jared Polis commuted the nine-year prison sentence of former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters on Friday after pressure from Donald Trump and conservatives who have championed her cause. According to multiple reports, Peters will be released June 1.
- Colorado Gov. Jared Polis commutes Tina Peters' nine-year sentence
- Peters convicted for allowing unauthorized access to election equipment
- Democratic officials criticize decision as undermining rule of law
- Trump celebrates the move on Truth Social
Polis stated that Peters' original sentencing was unusually harsh for a first-time offender convicted of nonviolent crimes. The governor's decision follows months of advocacy by former President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly called for Peters' release despite facing criticism from fellow Democrats. Polis defended his action as consistent with principles of free speech and fair treatment.
Peters was found guilty on seven counts related to allowing unauthorized access to election equipment following the 2020 presidential election. Prosecutors alleged she devised a scheme that enabled an expert affiliated with My Pillow CEO Mike Lindell to copy Mesa County's election computer system, which was later used by groups claiming voter fraud.
Democratic officials in Colorado condemned Polis' decision as a gross injustice to elections and democracy. Secretary of State Jena Griswold stated it undermined the rule of law and sent a dangerous message about consequences for election-related crimes. Democratic Sens. Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper also criticized the move, emphasizing Peters broke the law.
Trump celebrated Polis' decision on Truth Social with 'FREE TINA!' Despite Trump's federal pardon for Peters last year not affecting her state-level conviction, the case has become a focal point in debates over election security and accountability. According to Fox News, Governor Polis faced massive pressure from Democratic officials who opposed clemency.
In a statement shared with BBC through her lawyer on Saturday, Peters expressed remorse for her actions. 'I made mistakes, and for those I am sorry,' Peters said, in part. 'I have learned and grown during my time in prison and going forward I will make sure that my actions always follow the law, and I will avoid the mistakes of the past.'
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