Sam Amico
It’s time for reality stars Todd and Julie Chrisley to face the music. Or more accurately, face what could be a prison sentence.
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The Chrisleys, of course, became famous after starring on USA Network’s Chrisley Knows Best. With cameras following their lively (and often loud) family. It first launched on March 11, 2014.
But Todd and Julie have since been convicted of federal bank fraud and tax evasion that allegedly involved taking out fraudulent loans to fund their lavish lifestyles.
Federal prosecutors are now recommending that Todd receive 22 years in prison and Julie receive 12 and a half. The Chrisleys’ sentencing will be handed down by U.S. District Judge Eleanor Ross, perhaps as soon as Tuesday.
“The Chrisleys have built an empire based on the lie that their wealth came from dedication and hard work,” prosecutors wrote in a court filing. “The jury’s unanimous verdict sets the record straight: Todd and Julie Chrisley are career swindlers who have made a living by jumping from one fraud scheme to another, lying to banks, stiffing vendors, and evading taxes at every corner.”
Todd and Julie Chrisley Being Sentenced in Atlanta
Todd’s attorney contended that he should only serve nine years. While Julie’s lawyers are aiming for probation only, with no prison time.
Additionally, accountant Peter Tarantino is sentenced with the Chrisleys, after being found guilty of conspiracy to defraud the IRS and willfully filing false tax returns.
“The Chrisleys are unique given the varied and wide-ranging scope of their fraudulent conduct and the extent to which they engaged in fraud and obstructive behavior for a prolonged period of time,” prosecutors wrote.
Through it all, the Chrisleys have maintained their innocence. Todd did say he was guilty of “veering from God,” however.
“God has literally taken me to a place where I have so much peace with no longer worrying about trying to please – or trying to meet the expectation of someone else,” Todd said on his podcast back in August. “The expectation I long to meet is of God. God expects me to be a good, decent, honorable human being. He expects me to honor his word; he expects me to be the leader of my household. He expects me to set an example for my wife, my children, to lead by example.”
