Todd and Julie Chrisley freed one day after Trump’s pardon: What we know

On May 28, 2025, Todd and Julie Chrisley walked out of federal prisons after former President Donald Trump granted them full pardons one day earlier. Todd left the Pensacola federal camp in Florida, where he had been serving a 12-year sentence for bank fraud and tax evasion.

Julie walked out of the Lexington federal medical center in Kentucky after serving part of her seven-year term. Both were notified of their clemency within 24 hours of Trump signing the order. Their release came as a surprise to many supporters and critics alike.

Also Read: Why were Todd and Julie Chrisley convicted? Charges discovered as Trump grants pardon

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Todd and Julie Chrisley's financial crimes led to convictions in 2022

Todd and Julie Chrisley’s legal troubles began in August 2019, when a federal grand jury in Atlanta charged them with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, wire fraud, and tax evasion. Prosecutors said they used fake financial documents to secure more than $30 million in loans from banks.

In June 2022, a jury found them guilty on multiple counts. In November of that year, Todd was sentenced to 12 years and Julie to seven years plus $17.8 million in restitution. Their sentences were later slightly reduced on appeal, but both remained in prison until this week.

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The pardon was announced by phone to Todd and Julie Chrisley's children

On May 27, 2025, President Trump called the Chrisleys’ daughter, Savannah, and their son, Grayson, to tell them he planned to grant full pardons. Trump said he believed the couple had received “pretty harsh treatment” during their trials.

Later that afternoon, the White House issued a statement confirming the pardons were signed and would take effect immediately. This phone call set in motion the rapid release of both Todd and Julie from their separate facilities.

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Savannah and Grayson shared emotional reactions

Todd and Julie’s daughter, Savannah, arrived outside the Pensacola prison before sunrise and told reporters she felt “absolutely surreal” watching her father leave. She said she hadn’t slept all night and simply wanted to bring her dad home.

In Kentucky, their son Grayson greeted Julie as she stepped out of the medical center. Both siblings spoke of relief and gratitude to those who had supported their family during the past two years.

Also Read: Trump to pardon Todd and Julie Chrisley after scam convictions: Everything we know so far

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The family returned to Nashville, and plans are modest for now

After their release, Todd and Julie Chrisley drove back to their home in Nashville. They have said they intend to keep a low profile while they adjust to life outside prison.

Earlier in May, reports noted that a cable network had greenlit a new reality series documenting their time behind bars and life afterwards. Meanwhile, Savannah plans to speak about criminal justice issues and work with advocates to raise awareness of sentence lengths and prosecutorial choices.

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Their case has sparked a wider debate over Presidential clemency

Supporters of Todd and Julie Chrisley view their pardon as a chance to correct what they saw as overly severe sentences and to offer a second chance. Critics argue that high-profile pardons can favor people with fame or political connections and may undermine faith in equal justice.

Legal experts say the case will likely be cited in future discussions about the reach and limits of Presidential clemency powers. As Todd and Julie Chrisley settle back into family life, their story remains a focal point in the debate over fairness in the justice system.

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