In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Mama June Shannon expressed her hopes that Todd and Julie Chrisley “learned something” from their experience in prison after facing their own legal battles. The reality star, known for her own struggles with the law, had some words of advice for the Chrisleys following President Donald Trump’s pardon of the couple on May 27. While Shannon was pleased that they would be reuniting with their family, she cautioned that what may seem like a “slap on the wrist” now could have more serious consequences in the future.
Todd Chrisley, 56, and Julie Chrisley, 52, were serving a combined sentence of 19 years in prison for convictions related to tax evasion and bank fraud. The reality television personalities began their prison terms in January 2023 but were recently granted clemency by President Trump. Shannon, who has had her own share of legal issues including an arrest in March 2019 for possession of a controlled substance, urged the Chrisleys to reflect on their experience and avoid further entanglements with the law.
Shannon, who did not serve jail time but was required to stay out of trouble for a year, shared her affection for the Chrisley family while underscoring the importance of learning lessons from their legal troubles. She pointed out that a second chance may not come easily if they find themselves in trouble again. Referring to her own past run-ins with the law when she was found with crack cocaine and a crack pipe, Shannon emphasised the need for caution and responsibility in the aftermath of legal issues.
After Shannon’s arrest in 2019, her daughter Lauryn “Pumpkin” Efird took custody of her youngest daughter, Alana “Honey Boo Boo” Thompson, who was just 14 years old at the time. Shannon’s boyfriend at the time, Eugene Edward “Geno” Doak, also faced charges related to drug possession and domestic violence. Despite the felony charges levied against Shannon and Doak, both pleaded not guilty and Shannon was subsequently sentenced to community service as part of her legal resolution.
The grand jury indictment in Alabama detailed the charges against Shannon, alleging unlawful possession of cocaine and drug paraphernalia. While the paraphernalia charge was a misdemeanor, the drug possession charge constituted a felony. Shannon and Doak’s legal journey following their arrests shed light on the reality of legal consequences and the importance of accountability. Shannon’s reflections on her own experiences serve as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that come with navigating the legal system.
As the Chrisleys embrace their newfound freedom following their pardon, Shannon’s words serve as a poignant reminder of the responsibilities that come with second chances. While celebrating their return to their family and loved ones, it remains crucial for the reality television couple to heed the lessons learned from their time behind bars. Shannon’s message carries a weight of experience and serves as a cautionary tale for those navigating legal challenges and seeking redemption in the face of adversity.