Austin “Chumlee” Russell, a fan-favorite from Pawn Stars, has had his share of legal troubles, despite his lovable on-screen persona. While many viewers know him for his antics on the show, fewer are aware of his brushes with the law.
Chumlee’s Legal Troubles
Chumlee’s legal history began in 2008 when he was arrested for loitering with intent to commit prostitution. But the more significant legal incident occurred in 2016, when police raided his home as part of a sexual assault investigation. Although he wasn’t charged in connection to that investigation, the raid uncovered firearms, crystal meth, Xanax, marijuana, and traces of cocaine. Chumlee was arrested and released on a $62,000 bond.
Following his arrest, Chumlee faced 20 felony counts, including unlawful possession of firearms. He eventually pled guilty to those charges and to misdemeanor drug possession. As a result, he was sentenced to three years of probation and required to attend counseling. His probation was successfully completed in 2019.
Chumlee’s Connection to the Harrison Family
Though Chumlee is a staple of the Pawn Stars cast, many fans wonder if he’s related to the Harrison family, who owns the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. Despite his close ties to the shop, Chumlee is not related to Rick or any of the Harrisons.
However, Chumlee has been best friends with Rick’s son, Corey Harrison, since they were kids. In 2004, he began working at the pawn shop, and five years later, Pawn Stars aired its first episode. Chumlee has remained a key part of the shop and the show ever since.
Chumlee’s story reminds us that everyone has ups and downs, but through it all, he continues to stay connected to what he loves—both the pawn shop and the show that made him a household name.
