In a surprising move on May 27, 2025, former President Donald Trump announced full pardons for Todd and Julie Chrisley, the reality TV stars behind the popular show Chrisley Knows Best. The couple had been convicted in 2022 on charges of bank fraud and tax evasion, leading to combined prison sentences totaling 19 years.
Todd Chrisley was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison, while his wife Julie received a 7-year sentence. Both began serving their sentences in January 2023. The Chrisleys were found guilty of submitting false documents to secure more than $30 million in loans. These loans were allegedly used to maintain a lavish lifestyle far beyond their reported income. Additionally, they were convicted of evading taxes and ordered to pay nearly $18 million in restitution.
The pardon announcement was made during a phone call from Trump to the Chrisleys’ daughter, Savannah Chrisley. During the call, Trump expressed sympathy for what he described as “harsh treatment” of the family and assured Savannah that her parents would soon be “free and clean.” Savannah, who has been vocal about her support for her parents and even spoke at the 2024 Republican National Convention advocating for their release, reacted with overwhelming joy and disbelief.
Todd and Julie Chrisley’s legal troubles captivated fans and critics alike, as the couple’s public persona on their reality show often centered on family values and luxury living. Their conviction was a significant fall from grace, and their case became one of the more high-profile financial crime cases involving celebrity defendants in recent years.
The Chrisleys’ case revolved around falsified financial statements submitted to banks to obtain large loans. Prosecutors argued that the couple had inflated their income and concealed debts to secure these funds. The misuse of this money to fund their lifestyle rather than legitimate business expenses was central to the charges. Tax authorities also found evidence of deliberate tax evasion over several years.
This presidential pardon follows a broader pattern of clemency granted by Donald Trump for individuals convicted of financial crimes. Since taking office in January 2025, Trump has issued 18 pardons related to financial offenses. These pardons have sparked debate over the appropriateness of executive clemency in cases involving economic misconduct.
The official pardon paperwork is expected to be finalized by May 28, 2025, which will pave the way for the Chrisleys’ release from federal custody. Their legal team and family have welcomed the decision, stating that the couple looks forward to rebuilding their lives outside prison.
For individuals interested in understanding more about presidential pardons and the clemency process, the U.S. Department of Justice offers detailed information on executive clemency and its criteria on their official website: DOJ Executive Clemency.
Additionally, the Federal Bureau of Prisons provides updates on inmate status and release information through its official portal: BOP Inmate Locator.
The Chrisley pardons are expected to renew conversations about the power of presidential pardons, celebrity influence on legal outcomes, and the justice system’s handling of white-collar crime. Supporters argue that the pardons give the couple a chance to move forward, while critics remain concerned about the message sent by pardoning individuals convicted of serious financial offenses.