American reality TV star Teresa Giudice and husband Joe Giudice have been caught on the wrong side of the law, in connection with conspiracy and bankruptcy fraud charges, for which the actress has been sentenced to 15 months imprisonment while her husband will have to serve 41 months in jail.
The Federal District Court announced the verdict on 2 October, and the crucial judgement has divided people and has raised the question - do they deserve sympathy?
While many have given thumbs up to the judgement and feel that "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" star and her husband are paying the price for their crimes, a section of people has expressed their sympathies.
"No matter what you think of Teresa and Joe... Our hearts are breaking. I am physically sick. Please pray for their children and family," tweeted "The Real Housewives of New York" star Jill Zarin .
"Teresa got 15 months and Joe almost 4 years. I am in shock. I really hoped the judge would show more leniency. Please give her space and time to process this," she added.
However, fellow contestant Danielle Staub was not as sympathetic.
"@FamilyIsLoyalty: Ohhhh @daniellestaub dontcha frigin LOVE karma baby!!!!!!!" Yup," she tweeted.
It may be recalled that Staub and Teresa had a clash in the first season of "The Real Housewives of New Jersey", which earned good names to both actresses.
What the Case is all about?
Trouble brew for Teresa and Joe after they filed for bankruptcy in 2009. They received about $5 million loans in mortgages and construction, by submitting false applications. They were also found guilty of hiding assets from bankruptcy creditors.
Along with it, Joe has failed to pay his taxes for a few years, and now has to pay $200,000 as a penalty. The only silver lining for the couple is that they will serve their punishment separately and their four daughters will have one parent for the next five years.
Do they deserve our sympathies? Share your views through comments below.
