PHOENIX - Cochise County Supervisors Peggy Judd and Tom Crosby have been indicted by a grand jury in Maricopa County Superior Court on charges of conspiracy and interference of an election officer, announced Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes. This marks a rare instance of criminal prosecution relating to the delayed canvassing of the 2022 general election results in six Arizona counties.

Attorney General Kris Mayes condemned the actions of Judd and Crosby, stating, "The repeated attempts to undermine our democracy are unacceptable. My office will continue to enforce Arizona's elections laws and support our election officials as they carry out the duties and responsibilities of their offices. I took an oath to uphold the rule of law."

Crosby and Judd, both Republicans, faced legal action after they refused to sign off on the vote count by the deadline, citing concerns about the certification of the machines used for ballot tabulation. Their actions prompted lawsuits, including one from then-Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, a Democrat.

In December 2022, a judge ruled that their refusal to sign off on the vote count was a violation of the law. Consequently, Cochise County certified the election results. However, the delay and controversy surrounding the certification process caused uproar in the state.

The indictment against Judd and Crosby follows their recent subpoena to court earlier this month. Their Democratic colleague, Ann English, who voted for certification, was not subpoenaed or indicted.

Jane Montgomery, spokesperson for Cochise County, declined to comment on the case. Montgomery confirmed that Judd and Crosby would be responsible for their own legal representation.

Last year, the delayed certification of election results in six Arizona counties fueled political tensions. While most of the country certified their election results without issue, pressure from some Republicans led to hesitations in Arizona. Ultimately, Democrats emerged victorious in U.S. Senate, governor, and other statewide races, solidifying Arizona's status as a swing state.

As the legal proceedings unfold, attention will be focused on the outcome of the trial and its implications for election integrity in Arizona.