Todd Chrisley, former star of a major reality television show, has run into a lot of legal trouble lately. Chrisley made a name for himself on “Chrisley Knows Best,” but his life turned upside down after being convicted of bank fraud and tax evasion.
Who Is Todd Chrisley?
Michael Todd Chrisley, popular as Todd Chrisley, is credited as a businessman and television personality. The USA Network series “Chrisley Knows Best,” which premiered in 2014, made him a household name. It gave viewers a glimpse into his lifestyle and family life.
Early Life and Career
Todd Chrisley was born in Georgia and moved to South Carolina, where he began working in real estate. He became rich by creating a successful business. His knack for business and his personality helped develop “Chrisley Knows Best,” where he appeared with his wife, Julie, and their kids.
“Chrisley Knows Best”
The unscripted program allowed viewers to see the abundant life of the Chrisley family and Father Todd’s authoritarian approach. The show became a hit lasting for ten seasons and also resulting in spin-offs such as “Growing Up Chrisley,” starring his kids Chase and Savannah. This reality show catapulted Todd into the household name of a reality star.
Legal Troubles
While Todd Chrisley enjoyed a life of fame and fortune on-screen, he was grappling with real-life legal troubles. Federal prosecutors eventually charged him and Julie with tax evasion and bank fraud in 2019. Prosecutors alleged they bilked banks out of millions and hid money from the IRS. They were convicted on all counts in June 2022. Todd faces a 12-year prison sentence, while Julie was issued with seven years. All of them started serving their sentences in January 2023.
Life in Prison
Todd was an assistant to the prison chaplain during his time in Federal Prison Camp Pensacola. He led worship and counseled fellow inmates. But in October 2024, prison officials reassigned him, citing too much contact with some prisoners. However, Todd became reclusive but continued to help others and stayed true to his faith.
Family’s Response and Advocacy
Savannah, the daughter of the Chrisley family, has been especially outspoken in regard to the trials and prison environment. Savannah addressed the 2024 Republican National Convention, condemning how her parents’ case is being handled and accusing investigators of pursuing them for political purposes. Biles has also campaigned for prison reform because her parents have been kept in facilities with little food and unsanitary conditions.
Recent Developments
Julie Chrisley’s seven-year sentence was partially upheld in an appeal before a judge in September 2024. The family said they were disappointed but still hopeful for legal recourse in the future. Todd had also nearly two years shaved off his sentence, having a new release date set for January 22, 2033. However, the Chrisleys refuse to accept their reality; they continue battling for their freedom and reiterating that they haven’t done anything wrong.
Media Coverage and Public Perception
The Chrisleys have been in the public eye for their legal drama. The rows around their story have touched on issues from celebrity privilege and the justice system to the impact of reality television on private life. Public opinion is split; some are sympathetic to the family in their unfortunate situation, while others see them as a cautionary tale of how greed and deception can ruin lives.
Effects on Family and Future Employment
The legal battle has taken a devastating toll on the Chrisley family. The convictions led to the cancellation of their reality television series, and the family has suffered financial setbacks. The Chrisleys still hold hope through all of this. They are still fighting to free them and trying to rebuild their lives.
