Kendra Duggar’s immediate family is speaking out after Joseph Duggar was arrested amid accusations of sexual abuse.
“Our family is both troubled and heartbroken over the alleged actions committed by our son-in-law,” the Caldwell family wrote via Instagram on Wednesday, April 15. “We are devastated for the young girl, a child who was courageous in every way to share her truth. We stand by her, both in support and prayer, and forever will.”
The statement continued, “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.”
Us Weekly previously confirmed on March 18 that Joseph, 31, was arrested in Arkansas amid accusations of sexual abuse from a teen girl who was 9 years old at the time of the alleged incident.
The former 19 Kids and Counting star pleaded not guilty to all charges, including lewd and lascivious behavior involving molestation of a victim less than 12 years old and lewd and lascivious behavior conducted by a person 18 years or older.
Joseph was released from a Florida jail on March 31 after posting $600,000 bail. His lawyer confirmed to People that he was able to reunite with Kendra one day later.
While Kendra’s family said they pray for all victims of crimes, they 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 only way to freedom is to shine light in the darkness,” the statement continued. “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. Thank you who have given in all the ways, through prayer, finances, time, energy and words of encouragement. We love you all. At this time, we have no further comment and request privacy.”
Earlier this month, Kendra’s family made news when they launched a GoFundMe page.
“My family is facing a difficult and urgent situation. We are in need to cover displacement expenses,” Kendra’s father, Paul Caldwell, stated in the crowdfunding initiative. “We will not be using these funds for [our] legal expenses.”
While the page was briefly removed, it reappeared with another note from Paul, who expressed gratitude for those supporting his family.
“Thank you so much everyone. The response has been overwhelming. We truly appreciate your generosity and prayers and thoughts,” he wrote. “The displacement fees will be for moving expenses, housing costs such as rent until we can find a place to stay more permanently.”
After Joseph’s arrest, both he and Kendra were arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a minor and false imprisonment. A source close to the family later told Us that Kendra’s arrest was unrelated to the allegations against her husband and apparently triggered by an investigation of their home.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). If you or someone you know is experiencing child abuse, call or text Child Help Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.
