Crime & Safety

'Real Housewives' Husband Faces Deportation if Convicted of Fraud

Teresa and Joe Giudice appeared together in federal court Tuesday.

Ciao Giuseppe? 

"Housewives" husband Joe Giudice could be deported to Italy if convicted of federal fraud charges brought against him and his wife, "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" star Teresa Giudice.

The pair appeared in federal court in Newark on Tuesday morning for their first appearance on charges that they lied to lenders to obtain millions of dollars in loans, and lied about their assets and income during bankruptcy proceedings. They each could face up to 50 years in prison if convicted, authorities have said.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathon Romankow reviewed the 39-count indictment against them and U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy L. Waldor went over their right to remain silent, the conditions of their bail, and asked Giuseppe Giudice if he understood he could be deported if convicted because he is a citizen of Italy.

Their arraignment is scheduled for Aug. 14, at which they are expected to plead not guilty.

The Towaco couple was indicted on the fraud charges Monday.

The Giudices each are free on $500,000 unsecured bail and have travel restrictions. Teresa Giudice signed for her bail and Joe Giudice's father, Frank Giudice, co-signed with his son for his son's bail.

Giuseppe Giudice's attorney, Miles Feinstein, told the judge his client's passport is in possession of the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office because of a separate case. Giuseppe Giudice is awaiting trial on charges he used a fraudulent ID to obtain a driver's license from the New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles while his was suspended following a DWI arrest.


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