Paul has now been in prison now for over 2,000 days — more than five and a half years.
This case has involved multiple states, ongoing legal proceedings, and significant financial costs.
The following outlines the cost of the prosecution and incarceration of Paul Petersen, and how you can help.
Two defense attorneys were required to defend 83 felony charges across three states.
This included coordination of legal efforts in Arizona, Arkansas, and Utah.
Total cost: $500,000
(Raised by Paul, friends, and family)
Following the original proceedings, additional legal work was undertaken to review and challenge aspects of Paul’s convictions and sentences.
Currently, there is a pardon appeal before Ed Martin, President Trump’s pardon attorney.
Prior to incarceration, Paul paid approximately $769,000 related to the case from his personal funds.
Looking ahead, additional costs are expected in preparation for a potential commutation process targeted for February 2027.
These efforts are focused on preparing, organizing, and presenting information as part of the commutation process.
As of 2026, Paul’s parents, David and Patti, have personally contributed $20,000 toward this process.
These costs reflect only one part of the broader situation, but they play an important role in what comes next.
Continued legal and advocacy efforts require ongoing support.
