DOJ investigating Peters prosecution
MESA COUNTY, Colo. (KREX) – The Department of Justice announced it is reviewing the prosecution of ex-Mesa County Clerk and Recorder Tina Peters after 'reasonable concerns have been raised.'
In a statement of interest filed Monday, the DOJ said these concerns relate to Peters' 'exceptionally lengthy sentence,' First Amendment rights violations and the state's denial of bail pending appeal, which is 'arbitrary or unreasonable under the Eighth and 14th Amendments.'
Peters, who is incarcerated in Larimer County Detention Center, was found guilty Aug. 12 of violating her duty, official misconduct, failure to comply with the Colorado Secretary of State's Office, three counts of attempting to influence a public servant and one of two counts of conspiracy to commit impersonation.
'Accordingly, the United States respectfully submits that the concerns raised in the Application warrant —at the very least —prompt and careful consideration by this Court (and, at the appropriate time, the Colorado appellate courts),' the DOJ wrote.
This statement of interest comes not long after Peters' attorneys requested a writ of habeas corpus last month while she waits for the Colorado Court of Appeal's review of her charges.
In the application, Peters reportedly suffers from serious health issues and that, while behind bars, her physical and mental health have deteriorated.
President Donald Trump's DOJ's review will also evaluate the state's prosecution of Peters and whether the case was 'oriented more toward inflicting political pain than toward pursuing actual justice or legitimate governmental objectives,' the filing read.
Peters can't be pardoned by Trump since she was convicted on state charges. It's ultimately Colorado Gov. Jared Polis' decision whether to release her or not.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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