Reality TV Star Julie Chrisley Resentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Bank Fraud and Tax Evasion

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
25/09/2024 19h07

The decision upheld the original sentence, rejecting Chrisley's plea for a reduced term.

Chrisley and her husband, Todd Chrisley, gained notoriety through their reality show that showcased their lavish lifestyle. However, in 2022, they were found guilty of conspiring to defraud community banks out of over $30 million by submitting false documents to secure loans. In addition to bank fraud, the pair was convicted of evading taxes by concealing their earnings.

Julie Chrisley's case was sent back to the lower court after a three-judge panel from the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals identified a legal error in the initial sentencing. Despite this, U.S. District Judge Eleanor Ross chose to maintain the original sentence of seven years. Ross noted that her initial decision had already accounted for various mitigating factors like Chrisley's age, health, and her responsibilities toward her children and elderly parents.

Julie Chrisley's attorney, Alex Little, had argued for a reduced sentence of no more than five years, claiming that Chrisley was a minor player in the fraudulent activities. He emphasized her positive behavior and extensive participation in enrichment programs during her 20 months in prison. He also highlighted the struggles of Chrisley's two youngest children due to their mother’s absence.

Federal prosecutor Annalise Peters, however, urged the judge to uphold the seven-year sentence, arguing that Julie Chrisley was a crucial part of the fraudulent scheme and had shown no remorse. Peters stressed that good behavior in prison did not erase years of fraudulent acts that caused significant harm.

Julie Chrisley addressed the court, expressing regret for her actions and highlighting the toll her imprisonment had taken on her family. Despite her apology, the judge reiterated that many convicts have children who face similar hardships, emphasizing that the decision to commit these crimes was solely Chrisley's.

During the hearing, Savannah and Chase Chrisley, two of Julie's grown children, were present. Savannah later criticized the prosecution and sentencing as politically motivated, attributing the outcome to the judge's appointment by President Barack Obama.

Todd Chrisley is currently serving a 12-year sentence at a minimum security prison in Pensacola, Florida, with a release date in September 2032. Initially, the Chrisleys were ordered to pay $17.8 million in restitution, but this amount has since been reduced to $4.7 million. Julie Chrisley is expected to return to a facility in Lexington, Kentucky, to serve out her remaining time.

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