Steve McBee Sr. Wants a Presidential Pardon — McBee Dynasty Drama Explodes

Steve McBee Sr., the patriarch featured on McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys, has been no stranger to the spotlight—or controversy.

On screen, viewers have followed his family’s Missouri ranch adventures, complete with the occasional high-stakes drama. Off camera, however, the tension escalated significantly.

After an FBI investigation into his activities, Steve pled guilty to a federal crop insurance fraud charge. In October, a judge sentenced him to 24 months in prison, and he began serving his term at the Yankton federal prison on December 1. The timing has complicated personal matters, notably his son Cole McBee’s wedding to fiancée Kacie Adkison.

Exploring a Presidential Pardon

Now behind bars, Steve is exploring every possible avenue to reduce his sentence, including a potential presidential pardon.

In an interview with PEOPLE, he revealed, “I’ve been meeting with pardon attorneys. We’re putting everything together to fill out the application and turn everything in. It’s a long, drawn-out, extensive process. I’m very hopeful that the pardon could take place based on the details of the situation.” Reflecting on the unusual step, he added, “I feel privileged to even consider this route.”

Steve has also been leaning on the guidance of reality TV veterans Todd and Julie Chrisley of Chrisley Knows Best.

The Chrisleys themselves were convicted of fraud and tax offenses in 2022 but received full presidential pardons in May, giving them a unique perspective on Steve’s predicament. “It was a blessing that [our McBee Dynasty producer] knew them and that we were able to connect,” Steve said.

Hope on the Horizon

Todd Chrisley has remained actively involved as Steve navigates the early stages of his legal options. “So many people out there don’t have anybody to help them, and Todd really picked up that torch,” Steve said.

Looking ahead, he hopes to pay that support forward. “I will absolutely find that avenue to help other people when I’m done with my situation.”

Beyond the pardon route, Steve is also considering opportunities under the First Step Act, which could potentially shorten his prison term and allow him to attend Cole and Kacie’s wedding. “When I’m out, we’re going to have a big wedding,” he shared. Depending on how things unfold, the family might even move the celebration to spring.

Despite the upheaval, Steve is trying to maintain a sense of hope. “Obviously, we hope for the best and pray for the best, but the storm is finally clearing,” he said. He described the ordeal as a “level five hurricane” but hinted that calmer days may finally be on the horizon.

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