Teresa Giudice has been sentenced to 15 months in jail for fraud.
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"For a moment I thought about probation... but I think a period of confinement is absolutely necessary in this case," Judge Esther Salas told Teresa, according to People. "I don't honestly believe that you understand or respect the law. I need to send a message. In the eyes of the law, it doesn't matter who you are. There are consequences to pay."
In addition, Teresa received two years probation. She will reportedly begin her jail sentence on January 5 so she can enjoy the holidays with her family. Joe will serve his prison time afterwards.
The couple has four daughters together -- Audriana, 5, Milania, 8, Gabriella, 9, and Gia, 13.
"You're a devoted mother," the judge reportedly told Teresa. "You have no criminal history. You've paid your taxes. Those girls need their mother at this critical age in their lives. There's a bond between a mother and a daughter."
Joe must allegedly pay $414,000 to Wells Fargo bank plus $10,000 in fines. Salas also reportedly told Joe he's facing "imminent deportation" following his sentence although immigration services will not act on the case until after his sentence is served. According to the magazine, the judge additionally recommended Joe should participate in an alcohol program.
In a tearful statement before the court early Thursday afternoon, Teresa reportedly said, "My daughters are my life. I'm more sorry than anyone will ever know. I will make this right no matter what. I'm really scared... I need to learn to do things for myself. It's time for me to wake up."
Before his sentencing, Joe had said, "I stand here humiliated. I disgraced many people, including my wife and my four daughters. I take full responsibility for my actions. I promise to be a better person," according to People.
In reply, Salas reportedly explained, "I am not sure you respect this court or our laws, and I'm not sure you understand what you've done. I want you home with your girls. You're a great dad."
Joe and Teresa both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud as well as three counts of bankruptcy back in March as part of a plea deal to resolve their 41-count federal fraud indictment. Joe also pleaded guilty to failure to file tax returns on nearly $1 million worth of his income.
The couple also admitted to claiming false salaries between the years of 2001 and 2008 and submitting phony loan applications to get some $5 million in mortgages and construction loans.
A trustee reportedly filed bankruptcy discharge papers on the couple's behalf on August 27, requesting to erase their $13,480,263.11 debt, according to E! News. However, a judge denied the request about one month later, allegedly leaving the reality TV stars to find different ways of paying their creditors back.
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The Real Housewives of New Jersey returned for a sixth season to Bravo this past July.
About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski
