Reality stars Todd and Julie Chrisley found guilty by federal jury

Todd Chrisley enters Richard B. Russell Federal Building in Atlanta on Wednesday, May 18, 2022. (Natrice Miller / natrice.miller@ajc.com)

It’s a sad and scary time for reality stars Todd and Julie Chrisley. After almost three years since their initial indictment, they’ve been found guilty on all counts in federal tax evasion trial.

According to a press release from the Department of Justice, the Chrisley Knows Best stars charges include conspiracy to defraud banks out of more than $30 million in fraudulent loans, wire fraud and obstruction of justice. The Chrisleys and their accountant, Peter Tarantino, were also convicted of a number of tax crimes, including attempting to defraud the Internal Revenue Service.

How exactly did the Chrisleys get away with what they’ve been found guilty of? They were able to get loans by presenting false financial statements, audit reports and bank statements, according to the press release. The release goes on to say they used the money to buy real estate, luxury cars, designer clothes and travel. As far as how the Chrisley’s accountant is connected in their charges, the release states Tarantino conspired with Todd and Julie to defraud the IRS and evade collection of delinquent taxes, while they earned millions on their reality show, Chrisley Knows Best.

In a statement, Keri Garley, a special agent in charge of FBI Atlanta, said “As today’s outcome shows, when you lie, cheat and steal, justice is blind as to your fame, your fortune, and your position. In the end, when driven by greed, the verdict of guilty on all counts for these three defendants proves once again that financial crimes do not pay.”

While the Chrisley’s haven’t spoken out directly about the verdict, in a statement to CNN, one of the attorneys for Todd Chrisley, Bruce Morris, said they are, “disappointed in the verdict,” and added that “an appeal is planned.”

The Chrisleys could face up to 30 years in prison. Todd, Julie, and their accountant are set to be sentenced on Oct. 6.

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