Jen Shah breaks silence after prison release, admits 'I was wrong' in first interview

Jen Shah is speaking out for the first time since her release from prison — and she’s taking full responsibility for the crimes that sent her there.

In an exclusive interview with People, the former The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star admitted, “I was wrong,” adding, “I made wrong decisions… I should have been more diligent.” She emphasised that she is “deeply remorseful” and takes “full responsibility” for her actions.

Shah, 52, was arrested in 2021 and later pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with a yearslong telemarketing scheme that targeted thousands of victims, many of them elderly or financially vulnerable.

She was sentenced to prison in 2023 and served two years and nine months at a federal facility in Texas before being released in December 2025. She is now completing the remainder of her sentence under home confinement.

Reflecting on her case, Shah said a turning point came when she reviewed evidence from prosecutors shortly before her trial. “I saw for the first time that there were people who were hurt,” she explained, adding that it changed her perspective and led to her guilty plea.

Now, Shah says her focus is on making amends, including repaying more than $6.6 million in restitution owed to victims. “I’m sorry… I’ve made it my mission to make sure that people are paid back,” she said.

While acknowledging the public scrutiny surrounding her case, Shah also expressed hope for a second chance. “I understand that people have their opinions… but I would hope they would give me the grace to at least hear me,” she added.

Her comments mark a significant moment in her post-prison life, signaling a shift toward accountability as she begins what she describes as a new chapter.