Reality TV Stars Who’ve Had Legal Troubles

Reality TV brings fame and fortune to many, but for some, it also comes with legal woes. Here’s a look at a few reality TV stars whose brushes with the law made headlines.

Jen Shah

Jen Shah, known from "The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City," made headlines not just for her dramatic presence on the show but also for her involvement in a nationwide telemarketing fraud scheme. Her legal troubles culminated in a conviction and prison sentence, making her a prominent figure in reality TV’s darker side.

• Show: The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City
• Conviction: Telemarketing fraud
• Sentence: 6.5 years in prison

Joe Giudice

Joe Giudice from "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" faced serious legal issues, including bankruptcy fraud, wire fraud, and tax evasion. His legal battles were well-documented on the show, leading to prison time and eventual deportation back to Italy after serving his sentence.

• Show: The Real Housewives of New Jersey
• Charges: Bankruptcy fraud, wire fraud, tax evasion
• Outcome: 41 months in prison, deportation

Abby Lee Miller

Abby Lee Miller, the tough-talking dance instructor from "Dance Moms," found herself in hot water when she was charged with bankruptcy fraud. She was accused of hiding income and eventually served time in federal prison, which marked a significant downturn in her once-thriving career.

• Show: Dance Moms
• Charges: Bankruptcy fraud
• Sentence: 1 year and 1 day in federal prison

Teresa Giudice

Teresa Giudice, another star from "The Real Housewives of New Jersey," faced similar legal troubles as her husband Joe. She was convicted of bankruptcy fraud and served over a year in federal prison. Despite the setback, she has since returned to the show, focusing on rebuilding her life.

• Show: The Real Housewives of New Jersey
• Charges: Bankruptcy fraud
• Sentence: 15 months in federal prison

Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino

Mike Sorrentino, known for his time on "Jersey Shore," found himself in legal trouble for tax evasion. Despite his attempts to evade taxes on his reality TV earnings, he was convicted and served time in federal prison, yet remains a beloved figure in the reality TV world.

• Show: Jersey Shore
• Charges: Tax evasion
• Sentence: 8 months in federal prison

Tarek El Moussa

Tarek El Moussa, one-half of the "Flip or Flop" duo, had a lesser-known brush with the law involving a domestic incident that led to a police response. Although no charges were filed, the incident added to the drama surrounding his highly publicized divorce and business dealings.

• Show: Flip or Flop
• Incident: Domestic disturbance
• Outcome: No charges filed

Farrah Abraham

Farrah Abraham, a former "Teen Mom" star, has had multiple run-ins with the law, including arrests for battery and disturbing the peace. Her legal issues have been a consistent part of her life post-reality TV, affecting her public image and career.

• Show: Teen Mom
• Charges: Battery, disturbing the peace
• Outcome: Multiple arrests

Richard Hatch

Richard Hatch, the original winner of "Survivor," is famous not only for his gameplay but also for his legal troubles. Hatch was convicted of tax evasion after failing to declare his $1 million prize and served time in federal prison.

• Show: Survivor
• Charges: Tax evasion
• Sentence: 51 months in federal prison

Lindsay Lohan

Although more of a Hollywood star than a reality TV personality, Lindsay Lohan’s brief stint on her own reality show showcased her legal troubles, including DUIs, theft, and other issues. Her legal battles have been a prominent aspect of her public life.

• Show: Lindsay Lohan's Beach Club
• Charges: Multiple, including DUI and theft
• Outcome: Various sentences, including rehab

Flavor Flav

Flavor Flav, known for his iconic role in "Flavor of Love," has had numerous legal issues, ranging from drug possession to assault. His troubles have been well-publicized, adding to the controversial legacy of his reality TV career.

• Show: Flavor of Love
• Charges: Drug possession, assault
• Outcome: Multiple arrests, probation

These reality TV stars may have found fame on screen, but their off-screen legal troubles serve as a reminder that reality can be harsher than the shows we watch.