Five Years Served.
Restitution Paid.
Still in Prison.

Supporters are now asking for a review through Arizona’s clemency process.

Current Focus:
Arizona Clemency Review (Expected Eligibility: February 2027)

Paul Petersen

Paul has paid for his mistakes. The question is: has he paid more than others for the same actions?

"I agree with the argument that Paul Petersen has paid enough for his mistakes, and that he was treated far differently than others doing the exact same thing. State and federal agencies were involved in these adoptions. Think about that for a moment."

This perspective raises an important question: Was the outcome fair and consistent with how similar cases have been handled?

What Happened to Paul

Paul Petersen has been incarcerated for over five years.

After:

  • More than 20 years working in adoption
  • Helping over 500 families
  • Completing his federal sentence
  • Paying full restitution


He remains in custody in Arizona due to a consecutive state sentence.

For many, that raises a simple question: why?

Why Supporters Are Requesting Clemency

Why Supporters Are Requesting Clemency
Executive clemency exists for cases where the outcome may no longer align with the broader interests of justice.

Supporters believe this may be one of those cases.

The question isn’t whether Paul should face consequences.
It’s whether those consequences have already been met.

The Financial Impact

Years of legal defense, restitution, and ongoing incarceration have created a significant financial burden – not just for Paul, but for those supporting him.

At the same time, continued incarceration comes at a cost to taxpayers as well.

Understanding this impact helps explain why continued support is needed moving forward.

Five years served. Restitution paid. Still behind bars.

How You Can Help

David and Patti Petersen are asking friends, family members, community leaders, public officials, and others who support Paul to help raise awareness and demonstrate the support surrounding him.

Learn and Share

Review the “How You Can Help” presentation to learn more about the current effort and share it with others who may be willing to support Paul and his family.

Share Your Voice

Help demonstrate the real people standing behind Paul by sharing your own message of support.

You may submit a short video, audio recording, photo and statement, written testimonial, or longer personal story. Your submission does not need to be professionally produced.

With your permission, selected messages may be shared through the website and future campaign outreach.

Make a Donation

Donations help support the continuing legal, advocacy, awareness, and outreach work associated with this effort.

Whether you share the information, contribute your voice, make a donation, or help connect the family with others who may be interested, every form of support is sincerely appreciated.

Adoption & Lives Touched

For more than two decades, Paul worked in adoption, helping families navigate a complex legal process. Many families remain connected to his work and have shared their experiences and gratitude.

This section highlights the broader context of his adoption practice and the families who chose to share their stories.

adoption reunion arranged by grateful Moms and Dads

Updates & Stories

Stay informed with recent updates, background information, and thoughtful perspectives related to Paul’s case and the clemency process.

Trent Franks Advocates for Paul Petersen

A Perspective on Adoption and Advocacy

Former Congressman Trent Franks shares his perspective on adoption policy and Paul Petersen’s role in supporting adoptive families.
Paul Petersen Prison Reflection on 2024 Election

A Reflection from Prison on the 2024 Election

Paul Petersen shares a personal reflection from prison on the 2024 election, his experiences, and observations during incarceration.
Eddie Ableser, a former Arizona state senator, shares his perspective on Paul Petersen’s case

A Case of Political Expediency Over Justice

Former Arizona state senator Eddie Ableser shares his perspective on Paul Petersen’s case, media narratives, and the call for clemency.