Trump to Pardon Reality Stars Todd and Julie Chrisley

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that he plans to pardon reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley, known for the show “Chrisley Knows Best.” This decision comes after the couple was convicted in 2022 of tax evasion and conspiring to defraud banks out of over $30 million in fraudulent loans.

The Chrisleys had been sentenced to significant prison time, with Todd Chrisley receiving 12 years and Julie Chrisley getting seven years. They were also ordered to pay $17.8 million in restitution. In a recent social media post, Trump stated he had spoken with the Chrisley family and confirmed the pardons, adding a playful remark: “Trump Knows Best!”

During a video shared by White House communications adviser Margo Martin, Trump informed the couple’s daughter, Savannah Chrisley, about their impending pardons. “It’s a terrible thing, but it’s a great thing because your parents are going to be free and clean,” Trump told Savannah. He expressed hope that the pardons could be finalized soon.

The Chrisleys were found guilty of hiding their earnings while living a lavish lifestyle featuring luxury cars and designer clothes, which prosecutors cited in their arguments. Todd Chrisley had also filed for bankruptcy and left behind more than $20 million in unpaid loans.

A three-judge panel from the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals found legal errors in the sentencing process for Julie Chrisley last summer, sending her case back for resentencing.

The couple’s accountant, Peter Tarantino, received a three-year prison sentence for his involvement in the scheme, though there is no word on whether a pardon for him is forthcoming.

This story is still developing, and updates will follow as new information becomes available.