PHOENIX — A Maricopa County Superior Court Judge has denied a motion to dismiss charges against Cochise County Supervisors Peggy Judd and Tom Crosby relating to the 2022 election.
The decision, by Judge Geoffrey Fish, was dated June 16 and electronically filed June 18.
Judd’s attorney’s, Kurt Altman and Ashley Fitzwilliams, argued that the state Grand Jury empanelled by Attorney General Kris Mayes lacked jurisdiction. They argued there was no written referral by the Cochise County Attorney’s Office to the Attorney General, nor did the Attorney General issue written acceptance of a referral.
Crosby later joined Judd’s motion.
The state argued the Grand Jury had jurisdiction, due to the alleged crimes having occurred in both Cochise and Maricopa counties. Fish affirmed the state’s argument.
The Grand Jury indicted both Judd and Crosby for one count each of conspiracy and interference with an election officer — both Class-5 felonies — for their efforts to delay canvass of Cochise County’s 2022 election results, as well as conduct a hand count of all ballots contrary to state law.
During the Grand Jury, Crosby testified; however, Judd invoked her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and did not answer any questions.
Barring any delays, the trial of Judd and Crosby is scheduled for Aug. 15.
Judd is not seeking re-election this year; however, Crosby is running again. He is facing a challenge in the Republican Primary from Clint Briseno, and whoever wins will face Democrat Theresa Walsh in the November General Election.
