– Todd Chrisley was found liable for defaming a former Department of Revenue investigator
– He was ordered to pay $755,000 in compensatory damages, punitive damages, and attorney fees
– Chrisley is currently serving a 12-year sentence for bank fraud and tax evasion charges
Todd Chrisley, known for the reality TV show “Chrisley Knows Best,” has been found guilty of defaming a former Department of Revenue investigator. He has been ordered to pay $755,000 in damages. This adds to his legal and financial troubles, as he is already serving a 12-year sentence for bank fraud and tax evasion. The investigator, Amy Doherty-Heinze, accused Chrisley of making false accusations against her on social media and his podcast, leading to the defamation case. Chrisley has filed an appeal and remains optimistic about the outcome.
During a weeklong trial, it was determined that Chrisley was liable for two claims of libel and slander but not for a third claim, as the jury did not believe he acted with malice in that instance. His attorney expressed concerns about the case potentially limiting First Amendment rights. Chrisley and his wife were convicted of defrauding banks of over $30 million by providing false financial information to appear wealthier than they were. They are serving their sentences in separate facilities and have already had some time shaved off their sentences. Chrisley is scheduled for release in 2032, while Julie Chrisley’s release date has been moved to 2028.