2024-08-13 19:25:02
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) – In the final hours of the Tina Peters trial on its eighth and final day, proceedings saw closing statements from the defense and prosecution, jury deliberations, and a final verdict.
Tina Peters faces (3) three charges of attempting to influence a public servant, (5) two charges of conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation, (6) one charge of criminal impersonation, (7) 1st-degree official misconduct, (8) identity theft, (9) violation of duty, and (10) failure to comply with requirements of Secretary of State. If convicted on all counts, Peters could face up to 20 years in state prison and be fined millions of dollars.
All the evidence in the case had been presented. Both the prosecution and defense had an opportunity to make closing statements.
The prosecution closed by saying the case of Tina Peters was a simple cover-up laced with lies, deceit, and fraud. Prosecutors argued Peters used Conan Hayes, a man from California, to impersonate Gerald Wood and enter a secure tabulation room to tamper with election equipment. Mr. Shapiro with the prosecution said, “The defendant violated the trust of her office. She violated the trust of her staff. People like Stephanie Wenholz, and Brandy Vance—innocent, hard-working public servants. Most importantly, she violated the trust of this community—the residents of Mesa County, Colorado.”
The defense’s closing statement focused on the absurdity of the case and said it did not make sense that she was being charged with ten crimes for what they said was one decision that was not illegal at the time. Peter’s lawyers also pointed out the prosecution did not subpoena Conan Hayes, and they did not show the ‘Code Monkey Z’ video. Mr. Case with the defense team said, “Why did they not show you the Code Monkey Z video? We heard (throughout) the whole trial that this is the thing that would put the Secretary of State in jeopardy. The Secretary of State witness said it was the worst thing he had ever seen, but they will not show it to you.” The prosecution continued saying Peters was a target and being made an example by the government. They appealed to the jury and told them the witness testimonies could not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Peters was guilty.
The jury deliberated and reached a unanimous verdict on all ten charges. Peters was found guilty on all three charges of attempting to influence a public servant, one charge of conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation, 1st-degree official misconduct, violation of duty, and failure to comply with requirements of the Secretary of State. The jury found Peter not guilty of criminal impersonation, identity theft, and one count of conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation.
Peter awaits sentencing for her convictions on October 3rd. Her sentencing will run from 9:30 AM to noontime and will be done via jury trial.
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