In a jaw-dropping twist worthy of reality TV, Todd and Julie Chrisley have been granted a full, unconditional presidential pardon by Donald Trump. The Chrisley Knows Best stars
The couple were convicted of bank fraud and tax evasion in 2022. They were sentenced to 12 and 7 years and are now free to return home. It’s a moment their daughter Savannah Chrisley tearfully called “a miracle.”
“Trump Knows Best” — A Presidential Call Goes Viral
The emotional moment played out on social media when a video from the Oval Office captured Trump calling Savannah and Chase Chrisley to deliver the news himself.
“It’s a terrible thing, but it’s a great thing, because your parents are going to be free and clean,” Trump told them. “We’ll try getting it done tomorrow.”
Standing beside him was Alice Marie Johnson, now serving as Trump’s pardon czar, whom he credited for helping push the case forward.
Also present was Special Assistant Margo Martin, who shared the news online with the post: “Trump Knows Best!”
Savannah: MAGA Hat, Sam’s Club, and Tears
Savannah later shared a video on Instagram, visibly emotional, wearing a white “Make America Great Again” hat, and recalling the call she received “walking into a Sam’s Club.”
“The President called me personally… My parents are coming home tonight or tomorrow. I have shed so many tears. It still doesn’t feel real.”
She added, “We’re putting clothes together for Mom and Dad, getting their room ready upstairs. I just can’t thank everyone enough.”
Gratitude, Redemption & A Message to Critics
“Thank God for a president like Donald J. Trump,” she said. “He didn’t just commute their sentences, he gave them a full pardon. I will stand with him and continue fighting for others like my parents.”
Savannah also thanked her legal team, her supporters, and “the political figures who believed in us over the past 2.5 years.”
The Case Behind the Headlines
Todd and Julie were convicted on multiple federal counts, including bank fraud, tax evasion, wire fraud, and obstruction of justice. Prosecutors said they submitted fake financial documents to obtain over $30 million in loans, allegedly used for luxury cars, real estate, designer shopping, and travel.
They were also accused of failing to repay over $20 million in debts after Todd declared bankruptcy. Their accountant, Peter Tarantino, was convicted alongside them.
In court, Julie was specifically found guilty of wire fraud and obstruction. The FBI and DOJ called the verdict “a clear message that financial crimes do not pay.”
Earlier attempts to appeal were rejected by a 3-judge panel in 2023. This prompted Savannah and the family’s legal team, led by Jay Surgent, to submit a formal pardon request. They cited constitutional violations, including a warrantless warehouse search.
While their Georgia state tax case was resolved in 2019, even resulting in refunds — the federal conviction stood until Trump’s pardon wiped it clean.
A Divided Internet Reacts
The announcement ignited fierce debate across platforms, especially Facebook. Some called the pardon “insanity” while others praised it as “the best thing [Trump] has done in a while.”
One critic wrote: “They should have to serve their time like everyone else.”
Another supporter replied: “This case was mishandled. Let them go — it’s time for second chances.”
From Prime Time to Redemption Arc
The Chrisley family shot to fame on Chrisley Knows Best, which ran for 10 seasons starting in 2014. Todd and Julie also starred in Growing Up Chrisley alongside Savannah and Chase.
Now, with this presidential pardon, their story enters a bold new chapter, one of forgiveness, family, and an emotional return home.
“My parents get to start their lives over,” Savannah said. “And I get to pick them up.”
