Joe Giudice could be closer to being deported to his native Italy after Immigration and Customs Enforcement dismissed an appeal made by the "Real Housewives of New Jersey" star to remain in the U.S.
The Giudice family attorney confirmed the decision to ABC News Thursday, saying, "We are extremely disappointed and will continue to fight to keep Mr. Giudice in the United States, the only country he knows and reunite him with his wife and four daughters."
Joe Giudice pleaded guilty in 2014 to bankruptcy fraud and failing to pay taxes on $200,000 worth of income. He was released from prison in March 2019. His wife, Teresa Giudice, also served nearly a year in prison after pleading guilty to submitting false loan applications when she applied for a $5 million mortgage.
According to U.S. law, immigrants can be deported if they are convicted of "a crime of moral turpitude" or an "aggravated felony."
In November, Teresa Giudice spoke out in "Good Morning America" after it was announced that her husband would be deported to Italy after he finished his stint in federal prison for bankruptcy fraud.
"It's heartbreaking," she told Michael Strahan. "I never thought I'd be in this position. I have to stay strong. I have four beautiful daughters and they need their mommy."
During that interview, the star admitted that it made her angry knowing Joe never applied for citizenship.
"I never thought I would be in this position," she said.
Teresa posted a photo of her husband with three of their four children on Instagram Thursday, writing, "Joe with the girls decorating eggs, days like this I love having photos."
On Wednesday, Joe Giudice and his attorneys filed a stay with the 3rd Circuit Court. If his stay with that court is granted, the process is put on pause. If the court denies the motion for a stay, the order stands and the father of four will be deported back to Italy.
