Jason Duggar and his wife, Maddie Duggar, are speaking out following the arrest of his brother, Joseph Duggar, sharing their reaction in an emotional Instagram statement.
“We, like many, have spent the week completely shocked, confused, and grieved to list a few emotions,” they said. “We are disgusted to hear the news about my brother.”
They continued, “Our hearts are burdened because a child’s life has been turned upside down due to evil actions of someone who should have never hurt the vulnerable. This is something unthinkable.”
Joseph, 31, was arrested on March 18 and charged with two counts of child sex abuse tied to an alleged 2020 incident involving a 9-year-old girl. According to authorities, the allegations include inappropriate contact during a family vacation, and investigators say Duggar later admitted his actions in a conversation with the child’s father and law enforcement.
The case came to light after the victim, now older, participated in a forensic interview, prompting further investigation. Duggar has also faced additional charges related to endangering the welfare of a minor, and the case remains ongoing as it moves through the legal system.
Jason also expressed anger over the situation. “We are angered by what was happened, and we pray God’s righteous hand and the court system will serve justice in the situation as deserved,” he said. “We ask that you pray for the victim who has been brave enough to share what has happened,” they said. “We stand with innocent children. Always.”
“His children must face the reality of losing a father that should have been a spiritual leader in their lives,” they said.
The case remains ongoing as authorities continue their investigation.