'Real Housewives' stars face 50 years in prison over fraud charges

"The Real Housewives of New Jersey" stars Teresa and Joe Giudice face up to 50 years in prison after being indicted Monday on federal charges that the couple defrauded lenders and hid assets when filing for bankruptcy, according to published reports.

In all, the Bravo reality TV stars from Montville Township, N.J., were hit with 39 charges, including conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and making false statements on loan applications and bankruptcy. Joe Giudice, 43, was charged with failure to file tax returns for five years.

The couple, who has four young daughters together, were not arrested and are due in court Tuesday.

"The indictment returned today alleges the Giudices lied to the bankruptcy court, to the IRS and to a number of banks," U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman said in a statement. "Everyone has an obligation to tell the truth when dealing with the courts, paying their taxes and applying for loans or mortgages."

Teresa Giudice, 41, will plead not guilty, her lawyer said.

In a statement released by her attorney, Teresa Giudice said: "I am hopeful that we will resolve this matter with the Government as quickly as possible."