‘Real Housewives of New Jersey’ Couple Facing Federal Charges

29 Jul, 2013

On Monday Teresa and Giuseppe Giudice were charged with fraud and tax evasion.

The two cast members of “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” were indicted in U.S. District Court in New Jersey on a total of 39 charges, including bankruptcy fraud, making false statements on loan applications, bank fraud and conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, according to court filings.

Watch our interview with ‘Real Housewife of New Jersey’ Jacqueline Laurita

Giuseppe, 43, who is known as Joe, was also accused of failing to file tax returns between 2004 and 2008, illegally earning $1 million.

The charges are the latest in a string of high-drama run-ins with family members and the law by the Giudices in recent years, as the TV network Bravo Media airs the fifth season of its New Jersey version of “Real Housewives,” a television franchise that follows wealthy couples and their families in several North American cities.

“Today is a most difficult day for our family,” Teresa Giudice said in a statement emailed to the press by her lawyer, Henry Klingeman.

“I support Joe, and as a wonderful husband and father I know he wants only the best for our lovely daughters and me,” she said. “I am committed to my family and intend to maintain our lives in the best way possible, which includes continuing my career. As a result, I am hopeful that we will resolve this matter with the Government as quickly as possible.”

Klingeman said that Teresa, 41, will plead not guilty.

“The judicial process that begins today with an indictment is a search for the truth,” Klingeman said. “As it moves forward, we look forward to vindicating her.”

Joe’s lawyer did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

A spokesman for Bravo, which is owned by Comcast’s NBC Universal, declined to comment.

On the “Real Housewives” show, the Giudices are known for their fierce fights, bankruptcy and other legal problems, including Joe’s 2010 and 2011 arrests for driving under the influence and driving on a suspended license.

“The indictment returned today alleges the Giudices lied to the bankruptcy court, to the IRS and to a number of banks,” Paul Fishman, the U.S. attorney for New Jersey, said in a press release. “Everyone has an obligation to tell the truth when dealing with the courts, paying their taxes and applying for loans or mortgages. That’s reality.”

The bank fraud and loan application fraud carry maximum penalties of up to 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine. The Giudices are each scheduled to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy Waldor in Newark on Tuesday.

Reuters

Mentioned In This Post: