The Caldwell family expresses deep distress over allegations of child molestation against Joseph Duggar, husband of their daughter Kendra. In their first public statement since the arrests, they describe themselves as troubled, heartbroken, and devastated.
Family Statement on Instagram
“Our family is both troubled and heartbroken over the alleged actions committed by our son-in-law,” the Caldwells stated on their Instagram account. They emphasize devastation for the young victim, calling her a “child who was courageous in every way to share her truth.” The family pledges ongoing support and prayer for her.
“Our love for this child remains at the forefront of our family’s priorities and minds,” they added. “We are proud of her for being strong enough to share her story while also retaining her own identity and joy.”
Arrest Details
Joseph Duggar, 31, faces charges of lewd and lascivious molestation of a victim under 12 years old. Bay County Sheriff’s Office arrested him on March 18 in Florida. He pleaded not guilty and is scheduled for court on May 18.
Kendra Duggar, 27, was arrested on March 20 in Arkansas for endangering the welfare of a minor and false imprisonment. Both have been released on bail.
Incident Description
The alleged incident occurred in 2020 during a vacation in Panama City Beach, Florida. Officials report that Joseph Duggar asked the victim to sit next to him on a couch and covered them with a blanket. He then manipulated her underwear, grazed her genitals, and rubbed her thighs. The victim states Duggar apologized, after which the incidents stopped.
Faith and Support Amid Trauma
The Caldwells turn to faith for solace. “We believe in a God who is just and loving, one who loves all of His children, especially the vulnerable and innocent,” they said. They urge victims to share their stories without fear, trusting the judicial process.
The family acknowledges the trauma impacting Kendra and Joseph’s four children, ages seven, six, five, and three. “We also recognize how traumatic this incident has been for our grandchildren as well and continue to pray for their strength. Our love for them, and our daughter Kendra, remains.”
They credit community support for providing light in dark times and request privacy moving forward.
Duggar Family Background
Joseph and Kendra married in 2017. The Duggar family gained fame through a TLC reality series from 2008 to 2015, focusing on Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar and their 19 J-named children. The show ended abruptly after revelations that their eldest son, Josh Duggar, molested five young girls as a teenager.
Jim Bob and Michelle addressed the matter in a 2015 Facebook post: “Back 12 years ago our family went through one of the most difficult times of our lives. When Josh was a young teenager, he made some very bad mistakes and we were shocked.” Josh, now 38, serves a prison sentence following his 2021 conviction for possessing child sexual abuse material.
For those affected by sexual abuse, text ‘STRENGTH’ to 741-741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
