The Caldwell family describes itself as troubled, heartbroken, and devastated by the child molestation allegations against Joseph Duggar, husband of their daughter Kendra.
Recent Arrests
Joseph Duggar, 31, faces charges of lewd and lascivious molestation involving a victim under 12 years old. Bay County Sheriff’s Office arrested him on March 18 in Florida. He pleads not guilty and faces 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 posted bail and were released.
Family Statement on Instagram
In their first public statement nearly a month after the arrests, the Caldwells express deep concern. “Our family is both troubled and heartbroken over the alleged actions committed by our son-in-law,” they state.
They emphasize support for the victim, a young girl they call courageous. “We are devastated for the young girl involved, a child who was courageous in every way to share her truth,” the family says. “We stand by her, both in support and prayer, and forever will.”
“Our love for this child remains at the forefront of our family’s priorities and minds,” they add. “We are proud of her for being strong enough to share her story while also retaining her own identity and joy.”
Faith and Support for Victims
The Caldwells turn to faith amid the crisis. “We believe in a God who is just and loving, one who loves all of his children, especially the vulnerable and innocent,” they declare.
They urge courage for all victims. “We pray all victims of crimes can be as courageous as this young girl is. They should be able to share their story, to trust in the judicial process, and to do so without fear of retaliation. You are not alone.”
Impact on Grandchildren
The family acknowledges the trauma to Kendra and Joseph’s four 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,” they note. “Our love for them, and our daughter Kendra, remains.”
Joseph and Kendra married in 2017. The couple’s plight echoes past scandals in the Duggar family, including older brother Josh Duggar’s molestation of five young girls, which led to the 2015 cancellation of their TLC reality show. Josh, 38, now serves prison time for possessing child sexual abuse material after his 2021 conviction.
Details of the Incident
The alleged 2020 incident occurred during a vacation in Panama City Beach, Florida. According to Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Joseph 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 reports he later apologized, after which the incidents stopped.
The Caldwells conclude by thanking supporters. “The only way to freedom is to shine light in the darkness, and in this time, part of the light in our lives has come through the outpouring of love and prayer from people near and far.” They request privacy at this time.
