The Arizona Court of Appeals has upheld the convictions of Gregory Allen Peterson, who was found guilty of serious crimes including second-degree murder, kidnapping, and possession of weapons by a prohibited person. The court's ruling, delivered on November 9, 2026, is significant as it confirms the lower court's decisions while also addressing a minor error regarding Peterson's sentencing credit.

This case stems from a violent incident in July 2022, where Peterson, prohibited from possessing firearms, entered his ex-girlfriend's home and shot her friend. He then kidnapped her, forcing her to withdraw money from an ATM. The court's decision impacts not only Peterson but also highlights the judicial process in handling serious criminal offenses in Arizona.

Background

Gregory Allen Peterson was charged with multiple felonies following a violent confrontation with his ex-girlfriend. The charges included possession of weapons by a prohibited person, kidnapping, second-degree murder, and first-degree burglary. The case was filed in the Maricopa County Superior Court, where Judge Justin Beresky presided over the trial.

The incident that led to Peterson's charges occurred when he entered the home of his ex-girlfriend, referred to as the Homeowner, against her wishes. During this encounter, Peterson shot and killed her friend. He then forced the Homeowner to comply with his demands, which included taking her car and withdrawing money from an ATM. The severity of the crimes committed led to a jury trial, where Peterson was ultimately convicted on all counts.

The Ruling

The Arizona Court of Appeals, led by Presiding Judge Jennifer M. Perkins, reviewed Peterson's case following his appeal. The court found no reversible error in the trial proceedings and affirmed the convictions. The judges noted, “We conclude that the superior court committed non-prejudicial error by enhancing Peterson’s sentences based on multiple priors without a jury determination that those offenses were committed on separate occasions.”

Though the court identified a procedural error regarding the enhancement of Peterson's sentences based on his prior convictions, it ruled that this error did not prejudice Peterson's case. The court confirmed that the evidence presented supported the jury's verdict, and Peterson's sentences were within statutory guidelines.

Impact

The court's ruling serves as a reinforcement of the judicial process in handling serious crimes, particularly those involving violence and firearms. By affirming Peterson's convictions, the court sends a clear message about the consequences of such actions. Additionally, the decision to modify his presentence incarceration credit by one day, increasing it to 1,072 days, reflects the court's attention to detail in sentencing.

This ruling does not set a new legal precedent but confirms existing legal standards regarding the treatment of prior convictions and sentencing enhancements. It underscores the importance of jury determinations in cases where prior convictions could influence sentencing severity.

What's Next

Peterson has the option to appeal this decision further, potentially to the Arizona Supreme Court, if his counsel identifies any issues suitable for review. He has 30 days from the date of this decision to file a motion for reconsideration or petition for review.