How to deal with the aftermath. In the midst of Josh Duggar’s child pornography scandal, parents Jim Bob Duggar Michelle DuggarThey have often spoken out about their feelings on this matter.
“We appreciate your continued prayers for our family at this time,” the 19 Kids and Counting parents said in a statement to Us Weekly in April 2021. “The accusations brought against Joshua today are very serious. We pray that the truth, regardless of what it may be, will be revealed and that all issues will be resolved quickly. We love Josh and Anna and continue to pray for their family.”
Josh — who shares seven children with wife Anna Duggar — was arrested without bail earlier that month on charges of receiving and possessing child sexual abuse material. Josh was convicted of child sexual abuse material possession and receiving after a trial in Arkansas.
“This entire ordeal has been very grievous,” Jim Bob and Michelle told Us In a statement made after the verdict. “Today, God’s grace, through the love and prayers of so many, have sustained us. Our hearts and prayers are with anyone who was ever hurt. [child sexual abuse material].”
The political activist’s sentencing was scheduled for April 2022, however, a judge granted his motion filed that March to delay the proceedings until May due to COVID-19 precautions and delays. For each count, he could face up to 20-years in prison and $250,000 fines.
Josh is Jim Bob and Michelle’s oldest child. They share twins. Jana Duggar John-David Duggar, Jill Duggar, Jessa Duggar, Jinger Duggar, Joseph Duggar, Josiah Duggar, Joy-Anna Duggar, twins Jedidiah Duggar Jeremiah Duggar, Jason Duggar, James Duggar, Justin Duggar, Jackson Duggar, Johannah Duggar, Jennifer Duggar, Jordyn Duggar and Josie Duggar. They also have custody of Michelle’s nephew, Tyler.
Ahead of his arrest, Josh was previously accused in 2015 of molesting multiple girls — including several of his sisters — when he was a teenager. Josh later admitted to his actions, and apologized to his victims before he was released from rehab.
“We are so thankful for everyone who worked with Josh in this program. It was a crucial first step in recovery and healing for Josh,” his parents wrote in a statement after his departure from the facility in March 2016. “Josh has now returned to Arkansas, where he will continue professional counseling and focus on rebuilding relationships with his family. We trust God for all our guidance and help. We are forever grateful for the love and prayers offered by so many and hope you will continue to pray in the days ahead.”
Scroll below for Michelle and Jim Bob’s candid quotes on Josh’s struggles through the years:
