Accused of both tax fraud and procuring fraudulent loans, Todd and Julie Chrisley now face 19 years of combined jail time.
The reality star couple were accused of making fake loan applications, during which banks were defrauded of approximately $30 million. An Internal Revenue Service tax attorney has stated that, in addition, the couple was convicted of conspiracy to defraud the United States and of federal tax evasion.
Tax lawyers in San Jose have learned that Todd and Julie were sentenced to 12 and seven years, respectively, and following the end of their incarceration, each must complete a probationary period of 16 months. Throughout the investigation, the Chrisleys maintained their innocence, but nevertheless, the case was ruled against them and the sentences were handed down from an Atlanta judge on November 21.
Fox News Digital reached out to the Chrisleys, but did not receive an immediate response.
Convicted of Multiple Charges, Couple Maintains Innocence
Although the couple maintains their innocence, they were both convicted of financial crimes, including conspiracy to defraud the U.S. government, bank fraud, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and tax fraud.
Wire fraud and obstruction of justice were additional crimes of which Julie alone was convicted. Prosecutors asked the judge to sentence Todd to up to 22 years in prison and Julie up to 13.
Prosecutors claimed that false documents were submitted by the Chrisleys when they made loan applications. In addition, a California tax attorney learned that prosecutors alleged that Julie submitted a fake credit report, as well as fabricated bank statements when attempting to rent a house in California. Prosecutors also stated that Todd tried to prevent the IRS from collecting unpaid taxes by using a company he controlled to hide income.
Court documents state that prosecutors requested that the Chrisleys also pay $20 million in back taxes.
The Chrisleys’ accountant, Peter Tarantino, was also found guilty on two counts of willfully submitting false tax returns. Tarantino will begin his three-year sentence in May after having hip surgery.
Hopes of Dismissal Dashed
There was news of a minor victory in 2019 that gave the couple hope that their problems may be coming to an end. That year, the Georgia Department of Revenue cleared them of tax evasion charges totaling $2 million. Todd and Julie attributed this to the judge “keeping an open mind and reviewing all the evidence.” The amount owed was adjusted to $110,000. At that time, Todd said in a statement that he knew all along they had done nothing wrong and believed they would be fine when “the facts all came out.” Nevertheless, they were convicted on multiple financial crimes in addition to the tax evasion charge.
Home Detention and Location Monitoring
After the guilty verdict, U.S. District Judge Eleanor Ross allowed the couple to remain free on bond. However, they were placed on home detention and location monitoring. Court appearances, medical appointments, and work-related tasks are the only activities for which they are allowed to leave their dwelling.
A Request to Stagger Sentences
The “Chrisley Knows Best” reality stars share custody of Todd’s granddaughter, Chloe, who was born in 2012. During sentencing, Julie Chrisley’s IRS tax attorney requested staggered prison terms until their granddaughter is eighteen. It’s not yet clear if this recommendation will be honored or if the Chrisleys will have to make other arrangements for Chloe while in prison.
The couple’s sentences will begin on January 15, 2023, although they are appealing the ruling. Those facing tax fraud charges should Google “tax attorney near me” or speak to a legal professional as quickly as possible to avoid bigger problems.