The family of Kendra Duggar expresses deep distress over child molestation allegations against her husband, Joseph Duggar. In their first public statement since the arrests, the Caldwells describe themselves as troubled, heartbroken, and devastated.
Family’s Official Statement
‘Our family is both troubled and heartbroken over the alleged actions committed by our son-in-law,’ the Caldwell family stated on their Instagram account. They emphasize devastation for the young girl involved, calling her a ‘child who was courageous in every way to share her truth.’ The family vows to stand by her in support and prayer indefinitely.
They highlight their love for the victim, noting, ‘Our love for this child remains at the forefront of our family’s priorities and minds. We are proud of her for being strong enough to share her story while also retaining her own identity and joy.’
Arrest Details and Charges
Joseph Duggar, 31, faces charges of lewd and lascivious molestation of a victim under 12 years old. Authorities in Florida’s Bay County Sheriff’s Office arrested him on March 18. 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.
The incident occurred in 2020 during a vacation in Panama City Beach, Florida. Officials report that Joseph asked the victim to sit next to him on a couch, covered them with a blanket, manipulated her underwear, grazed her genitals, and rubbed her thighs. The victim stated he later apologized, after which the incidents stopped.
Faith, Victims, and Family Impact
The Caldwells turn to faith amid the crisis, stating, ‘We believe in a God who is just and loving, one who loves all of His children, especially the vulnerable and innocent.’ They pray for all victims to find courage to share their stories, trust the judicial process, and face no retaliation, adding, ‘You are not alone.’
The statement also addresses the trauma to Kendra and Joseph’s four young children, ages seven, six, five, and three. ‘At the same time, 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.’
The family views transparency as key to healing: ‘The only way to freedom is to shine light in the darkness.’ They thank supporters for prayers, finances, time, and encouragement, requesting privacy moving forward.
Broader Family Context
Joseph and Kendra married in 2017. The Duggar family previously faced scandal when Joseph’s older brother, Josh, 38, molested five young girls as a teenager, leading to the 2015 cancellation of their TLC reality series. Josh currently serves a prison sentence for receiving and possessing child sexual abuse material.
Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, parents to 19 children, reflected in a past statement: ‘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.’
For those affected by sexual abuse, text ‘STRENGTH’ to 741-741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
