In a recent episode of The Adversity Advantage Podcast, Savannah Chrisley opened up about the challenges her parents, Todd and Julie Chrisley, have faced when trying to communicate with each other while in prison. Despite being incarcerated, the couple has found ways to stay connected, although the methods are far from ideal.
Savannah revealed that her parents have not been able to speak to each other on the phone since they entered prison a year ago. This is despite the prison system's claim to prioritize keeping families together. It's been a difficult and heartbreaking situation for the couple, who have been together for 30 years.
However, Todd and Julie have found an alternative means of communication through email. They use an app where they can add approved contacts, and Savannah acts as the intermediary to facilitate their email exchanges. Unfortunately, the emails are often delayed, and there's no guarantee that they will reach their intended recipient. Adding to the challenges, Todd and Julie are unable to send mail via the postal service, as Savannah alleged that correctional officers have been stealing their mail as part of retaliation.
The lack of direct communication has taken a toll on the couple. Savannah shared that they haven't heard each other's voices in a year, and that has been the most difficult aspect of their separation. However, despite these hardships, Todd and Julie make sure to express their love for each other through their daughter. During every call Savannah has with her mom or dad, they always ask her to convey their love to the other.
It was in January 2023 that Todd and Julie Chrisley reported to prison to serve their combined 19-year sentence for fraud and tax evasion. Prior to their incarceration, the couple filed an appeal, which led to a reduction in their sentence in September 2023. Their lawyer was granted oral arguments, giving them hope for a potential release.
Savannah celebrated this development on her Instagram, expressing her excitement at being 'one step closer to getting mom and dad home.' While the journey has been incredibly tough for the Chrisley family, they remain determined to support each other and stay connected in any way they can.
The story of Todd and Julie Chrisley's communication challenges sheds light on the difficulties faced by families dealing with incarceration. It also raises important questions about the effectiveness of the prison system in keeping families together. Hopefully, awareness of these issues will spur positive change and better support for families separated by incarceration.
If you want to catch up on the family's reality show, Chrisley Knows Best, you can stream it in full on Peacock.
