why were the chrisleys in prison

Todd and Julie Chrisley were in prison because they were found guilty of multiple federal crimes, including tax evasion, bank fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy. They were accused of stealing more than $30 million through fraudulent loans from community banks and evading taxes over several years. The couple was sentenced in 2022, with Todd receiving 12 years and Julie seven years in federal prison. Additionally, Julie was convicted of obstruction of justice. They began serving their sentences in January 2023. Both Chrisleys have maintained their innocence and claimed their accountants were responsible for the fraud. In May 2025, they received full pardons from former President Donald Trump and were subsequently released from prison.