Jen Shah Shares Rare Glimpse Into Her Life Behind Bars and Her Fight for a ‘Second Chance’ (Exclusive)

Instead of fighting for her life, Jen Shah is now fighting for a second chance.

More than four months after beginning her prison sentence following a fraud case conviction, the former Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star is sharing a rare glimpse into her reality behind bars. 

"Daily introspection and self-examination are helping me learn many valuable lessons about how I ended up here," Shah said in an exclusive interview with The Messenger via e-mail. "I took shortcuts and broke the law. I own and understand my actions created victims. I hurt people and I must reiterate that I blame no one but myself."

"I am committed to doing the work necessary to make my victims whole and prove worthy of a second chance," she continued. "I've learned to focus on what I can and cannot control. I can control my attitude and how I approach each day with a desire to improve."

According to Shah's prison consultant Justin Paperny, the Bravo star is "not just working, sleeping or exercising her time away." Instead, she's taking steps to mentor other prisoners and tutor GED and ESL students.

"Jen has adopted a positive attitude in a difficult situation," Paperny explained. "Her focus on personal growth, building strong relationships and helping others is a testament to her resilience and strength of character."

Shah also confirmed that she is teaching multiple workout classes and mentoring women in creating their release plans with additional help from Dress for Success. 

"I am grateful for the opportunity to earn a second chance," Shah said. "I know some people doubt my sincerity and commitment. I can only control what I do daily and how I prepare for my life after federal prison."

After pleading guilty to federal charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering in July 2022, Shah was sentenced to 78 months in prison. Her sentence, which began Feb. 17, has since been reduced by one year, according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons' inmate database. 

Paperny confirmed to The Messenger that Shah is not appealing and is taking steps to get her sentence reduced even further.

"She is pursuing educational opportunities to advance her release," he noted. "By actively participating and successfully completing educational programs, she may increase her chances of earlier release or other benefits."

In the meantime, Shah said she continues to learn lessons about herself as she remains at FPC Bryan Prison Camp in Bryan, Texas. 

"I have learned about the value of time," Shah shared. "I must be efficient and grateful and never complain. God has given me a moment to reset my life and I am grateful for that."

She's also finding more meaning with her relationships. According to Paperny, Shah is building bonds "organically" and making "friends with people with similar values."

The RHOSLC alum has also received some encouragement from Sharrieff Shah, who has visited his wife behind bars. As Jen said, "I am fortunate and grateful to be blessed with a wonderful support network of family and friends."