Tina Peters released from state prison Monday after Governor Polis shortens prison term

PUEBLO, Colo. (KKTV) - Former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters was released from state prison Monday after Governor Jared Polis commuted her sentence.

The Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) confirmed Monday that Peters was processed for release from CDOC. Officials said they will not provide additional details regarding residential placement, reporting schedules or travel logistics.

Peters was convicted in 2024 on seven of the 10 charges stemming from the case, which involved accessing Mesa County election systems during a software upgrade and allowing an outside computer expert linked to MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell to access secure voting equipment.

Gov. Polis said his decision to commute the sentence was based on concerns that Peters’ political beliefs improperly influenced her punishment.

The commutation reduced her sentence from nine years to four-and-a-half years and made her eligible for release June 1. It does not overturn her convictions.

The case has drawn criticism from prosecutors, who said the decision undermines confidence in the justice system.

Peters’ attorney, Peter Ticktin, said he believes the governor’s action was justified.

Attorney David McDivitt, a legal expert not connected to the case, said Peters remains a convicted felon and will report to a parole officer upon release.

Peters’ attorneys said they will continue efforts to overturn her convictions, arguing the legal fight is not over.

Her release Monday marks the latest turn in a case that has drawn national attention over election security and political claims surrounding the 2020 election.

Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold issued the following statement Monday after confirmation of Peters’ release: “The Governor’s grant of clemency to Tina Peters is an affront to our democracy, the people of Colorado, and election officials across the country. It sends a dangerous message about accountability for those who would attack elections. Peters’ release also will embolden the election denial movement; since the grant of clemency, she has continued to spread election falsehoods and conspiracies.”

11 News has reached out to a media representative for Peters’ legal team for any additional comment or statement now that she is no longer in CDOC custody.