Reality television personalities Todd and Julie Chrisley, widely recognized from their show “Chrisley Knows Best,” are taking steps to challenge their convictions and sentences relating to bank fraud and tax evasion charges. The couple, accompanied by their accountant Peter Tarantino, has filed appeals in hopes of overturning the verdicts and obtaining new trials. Oral arguments for their appeals are scheduled to commence on Friday, April 19.
Representatives for the Chrisleys, along with their accountant, and federal prosecutors will present their arguments before the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta. The legal ordeal for the Chrisleys began in August 2019 and culminated with a jury’s verdict in June 2022, which found them guilty of orchestrating a scheme to defraud community banks, evading taxes, and obstructing justice, resulting in netting over $30 million in fraudulent loans. Peter Tarantino, their accountant, faced charges related to conspiracy and false tax filings.
The defense team for the Chrisleys alleges discrepancies during the trial, including false testimony and procedural errors. They contend that the evidence presented lacked credibility and failed to establish Julie Chrisley’s involvement in bank fraud. Additionally, they challenge the imposition of restitution and asset forfeiture. Todd Chrisley’s defense advocates for acquittal on tax evasion charges and requests a fresh trial for the remaining counts, citing erroneous evidence admission and alleged perjury. Julie Chrisley’s legal team demands exoneration on bank fraud charges and a reassessment of her sentencing terms.
Prosecutors, on the other hand, assert the validity of the evidence presented and defend the integrity of the trial proceedings. They oppose the requests for retrials or acquittals, asserting sufficiency of evidence and procedural fairness.
Peter Tarantino’s legal representation argues that his trial alongside the Chrisleys led to confusion and prejudice, warranting a retrial. They emphasize his lack of intentional involvement in the fraudulent activities.
In addition to the ongoing legal battle, Todd Chrisley faces further financial troubles due to a recent court ruling that found him liable for defaming a former investigator from the Georgia Department of Revenue. The judge ordered Todd Chrisley to pay $755,000 in damages and legal fees to Amy Doherty-Heinze, who accused him of making defamatory remarks about her.
Currently, Todd Chrisley is serving time at a minimum-security federal prison camp in Pensacola, Florida, with a release date set for October 2032. Julie Chrisley is incarcerated at a facility in Lexington, Kentucky, with a release date in July 2028. Peter Tarantino is serving his sentence at a minimum-security federal prison camp in Alabama, scheduled for release in September 2025.
The outcome of the Chrisleys’ appeals will determine the future course of their legal battles and potentially impact their sentences and convictions. The ongoing proceedings continue to draw attention from fans and followers of the reality TV stars as they await the court’s decision.
