Alternate electors were not illegal. There are some people who just dont have the money or stomach to fight the lawfare. There may be an upside. In GA, Sydney Powell took a plea as well, but some speculate by doing so it has allowed the discovery that is now exposing the extent of the GA steal. I am not sure I understand the details of this myself, but its what has been passed on to me by those closer to the GA case.
I was an alternate elector (Republican elector candidate) in Maryland last cycle. I was not charged.