Julie Chrisley: Celebrity Convict #10.
Crimes: Federal Charges of Bank Fraud and Tax Evasion
Sentence: 7 years
Who is Julie Chrisley?
Julie Chrisley, born January 9, 1973, is a central figure on the reality TV show Chrisley Knows Best. The daughter of a Baptist minister and a former Miss Carolina, Julie is known for her strong personality and as Todd Chrisley’s business partner, best friend, and “super mom.” Unafraid to voice her opinions, she often spends the family’s money as she sees fit, regardless of Todd’s preferences.
A breast cancer survivor, Julie has a deep appreciation for life and teaches her family, including Todd and their children, not to stress over minor issues. Over their 18-year marriage, Julie has played the role of the “calm one,” expertly managing Todd’s fiery temper. Her ability to stay composed has been a key element in maintaining balance within the family dynamic.
Chrisley Knows Best
Chrisley Knows Best was an American reality TV series that aired on the USA Network from March 11, 2014, to March 27, 2023. The show centred around Todd Chrisley, a real estate tycoon, and his affluent family. Initially filmed in Roswell and Alpharetta, Georgia, the series later moved to Nashville starting with the fourth season. A spin-off, Growing Up Chrisley, focusing on Todd's children Chase and Savannah, debuted in 2019.
Crimes and Charges
In August 2019, Todd and Julie Chrisley were indicted on 12 counts of bank and wire fraud, tax evasion, and conspiracy. The charges stemmed from accusations that they had evaded nearly $2 million in state taxes between 2008 and 2016. Prosecutors also claimed that they used their production company, 7 C Production, to conceal over $1 million of their reality TV income from the IRS. Additionally, it was alleged that Todd had directed an employee to falsify income and asset documents.
Despite these allegations, the Chrisleys turned themselves in and pleaded not guilty to the charges. In October 2019, the Georgia Department of Revenue cleared them of the state tax evasion charge, agreeing that they had overpaid taxes in four of the years in question. However, they still had a net liability of less than $77,000 for one year of incorrect filing.
After a nearly three-week-long trial, the couple was found guilty on all counts in a federal court in Georgia. Julie was also convicted of wire fraud. The Chrisleys were indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2019 on charges of bank and wire fraud, tax evasion, and conspiracy, all of which they denied.
Prison Sentence
The reality stars began their prison sentences on January 17, 2023. Todd is set to be released on January 22, 2033, from the Federal Prison Camp in Pensacola, while Julie will be released on October 19, 2028, from the Federal Correctional Institution in Marianna. Their original sentences were 12 years for Todd and seven years for Julie, but both sentences were reduced in September 2023. In June 2024, a judge granted Julie’s appeal and vacated her seven-year sentence due to insufficient evidence. However, in September 2024, a separate judge ruled that her original punishment was appropriate and resentenced her to 84 months in prison.
Savannah Chrisley, their daughter, expressed frustration with the court's decision, stating, "This is 100 percent [an] injustice. I will continue to fight for my parents." The couple’s legal battle continues, with their supporters vowing to push for further appeals and legal actions in the coming years.
Recent Heartbreak
Savannah Chrisley has been facing the challenges of raising her younger siblings, Grayson and Chloe, while her parents, Todd and Julie Chrisley, serve their federal prison sentences. As the reality star continues balancing school, work, and family responsibilities, she often shares how much she misses her mom, Julie, especially in difficult moments.
Julie and Todd began their prison sentences in 2023, and Savannah has been visiting them as often as possible. Despite their close-knit bond, it won’t be until 2028 that Savannah can reunite with her mother, who is serving a seven-year sentence. The family, known for their reality TV show Chrisley Knows Best, has faced significant upheaval, and Savannah has taken on a lot of responsibility in the wake of her parents' absence.
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On Instagram, Savannah shared a heartfelt throwback video with Julie, captioning it, “I miss you so much Mama… Please come home soon 💔😭 #bringthemhome.” The emotional post reflects the toll the separation has taken on her.
Savannah has also used her platform, including her podcast Unlocked with Savannah Chrisley, to share updates about her parents’ situation. She’s expressed concerns over Todd’s prison conditions and has worked to raise awareness about the treatment they’re receiving. Despite the hardships, Savannah continues to hold her family together, all while navigating the emotional challenges that come with their absence.
