In a stunning turn of events, former President Donald Trump has granted full pardons to reality television stars Todd and Julie Chrisley, effectively nullifying their convictions for bank fraud and tax evasion. This decision has captivated both political observers and fans of the Chrisleys’ reality show, “Chrisley Knows Best.”YouTube+17FOX 5 Atlanta+17People.com+17The Washington Post+3YouTube+3Axios+3
A Timeline of Events
- June 2022: Todd and Julie Chrisley are convicted of conspiring to defraud banks out of over $30 million and committing tax evasion.The Guardian+1Vulture+1
- January 2023: The couple begins serving their sentences—12 years for Todd and 7 years for Julie.Instagram+19The Washington Post+19People.com+19
- September 2023: Todd’s sentence is reduced to 10 years due to good behavior.Vulture
- June 2024: Julie’s sentence is overturned in an appeals court but later upheld.Fox News+10E! Online+10E! Online+10
- May 27, 2025: President Trump announces plans to pardon the Chrisleys, citing harsh sentencing and advocacy from their daughter, Savannah Chrisley. YouTube+5Vulture+5Axios+5
- May 28, 2025: The pardons are expected to be officially signed, allowing the Chrisleys to return home imminently. Vulture+1E! Online+1
The Role of Savannah Chrisley
Savannah Chrisley, daughter of Todd and Julie, has been a vocal advocate for her parents’ release. She previously spoke at the 2024 Republican National Convention and has made multiple media appearances to plead their case. In a recorded phone call, President Trump informed Savannah of the pardons, stating, “They were given a pretty harsh treatment based on what I’m hearing.” Facebook+9E! Online+9Axios+9ABC News
Public and Legal Reactions
The pardons have elicited mixed reactions. Supporters argue that the Chrisleys were victims of an overzealous prosecution, while critics contend that the pardons undermine the judicial process. The couple’s attorney claimed the prosecution was politically motivated due to their conservative profile. The Washington Post+3Axios+3The Daily Beast+3Vulture+1WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta+1
Video Coverage
For more on this developing story, watch the following news coverage:
Sources:
- Washington Post
- The Guardian
- Fox News
- E!
- ABC News
Note: This article is based on the most recent and credible sources available as of May 28, 2025. The situation is still unfolding, and further updates may follow.
