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UPDATE: Teresa & Joe Giudice Plead Guilty to Fraud Charges

Teresa & Joe Giudice

Teresa and Joe Giudice pleaded guilty to multiple fraud charges on Tuesday. This decision comes after the Real Housewives of New Jersey stars entered a not guilty plea following their indictment last summer.

By striking a plea deal, the couple has significantly reduced their expected prison time. While, at first, it was possible that they could spend 50+ years behind bars, now, Joe faces a potential 37-46 months and Teresa 21-27 months. Their sentencing is schedule for July 8.

The reality stars are parents to four daughters, and were indicted on 39 counts of fraud last July. Months later, two more counts were added for bank and loan application fraud. They recently petitioned to have separate trials, which would mean Joe could testify that his wife had no knowledge or involvement in the criminal activity. However, it seems she’s ready to stand up for her past mistakes.

“Today I took a responsibility for a series of mistakes I made several years ago,” Teresa said in a statement. “I am heartbroken that this is affecting my family. Especially my four young daughters, who mean more to me than anything in the world. I have said throughout that I respect the legal process and thus, I intend to direct the court directly at the sentencing. I will describe the choices I made, continue to take responsibility for my decision and express my remorse to Judge Salas and the public.”

Meanwhile, Joe, who is not a U.S. citizen, still has a chance of being deported back to Italy.

MORE LINKS

Q&A: Teresa Giuidice’s Daughter Talks Family Problems With Star 

Teresa Giudice Talks Legal Trouble: “I Can’t Just Be Upset”

Jill Zarin & Teresa Giudice Meet Up For Dinner in NYC

Teresa & Joe Giudice Request Separate Trial