UPDATE: Tina Peters arraigned in Mesa County courtroom

Michael Logerwell
·2 min read
UPDATE: Tina Peters arraigned in Mesa County courtroom

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) — Former Mesa County Clerk and Recorder Tina Peters is scheduled to appear virtually at the Mesa County Justice Center this Wednesday afternoon for arraignment.

UPDATE: Tina Peters and her defense team did appear virtually in courtroom 9 late Wednesday afternoon. A new trial date has been set for Peters. Judge Matthew Barrett set the trial date for February 9th, with the jury selection process to take place on the two preceding days. Peters’ new defense team of Richards and Maaliki raised several objections for a later date but to no avail.

Peters’ next court appearance won’t be virtual—she’ll appear in person on November 21st for a motions hearing. Her next appearance will be in January of 2024 for a pre-trial hearing.

In March of 2022, Peters was indicted by a grand jury on the following charges:

  • 3 counts of attempting to influence a public servant (Felony)

  • conspiracy to commit attempting to influence a public servant (Felony)

  • Criminal impersonation (Felony)

  • 2 counts of conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation (Felony)

  • identity theft (Felony)

  • first-degree official misconduct (Misdemeanor)

  • Violation of duty (Misdemeanor)

  • failing to comply with the secretary of state (Misdemeanor)

Peters waived her right to a speedy trial, which means the prosecution can take their time in putting their case together.

Tina Peters waives her right to a speedy trial

Two former Mesa County Elections employees who worked for Peters during her time as Mesa County Clerk and Recorder, Belinda Knisley and Sandra Brown, have entered plea deals with the District Attorney’s Office since the original indictment.

Looking for a shorter sentence, former Mesa County Elections Manager enters into Guilty Plea deal

Mesa County Deputy Clerk Cuts a Deal With Prosecutors

On the defense side, Peters traded in Harvey Steinberg for Denver-based attorneys Douglas Richards and Madalia Maaliki from the law firm Richards Carrington. Her attorneys have already asked for a delay in the trial, saying they need more time to prepare.

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