More members of the Duggar family are publicly distancing themselves from Joseph Duggar following his arrest on child molestation charges, with Jason Duggar and his wife Maddie Grace Duggar issuing one of the strongest statements yet.
In a joint social media post, the couple said they were “completely shocked, confused, and grieved” by the allegations against Joseph. They emphasized that the focus should remain on the alleged victim rather than the impact the scandal has had on the Duggar family.
“We are disgusted to hear the news about my brother,” the couple wrote, adding that their 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.”
Jason and Maddie described the allegations as “unthinkable” and condemned any abuse of trust or authority involving children. They further stated that they were angered by the accusations and hoped both the legal system and justice would fully address the situation.
The couple also expressed support for the alleged victim, praising her courage in coming forward. They asked followers to keep the child in their prayers while also remembering Joseph’s wife, Kendra Duggar, and the couple’s four children, who are now facing the consequences of the ongoing legal battle.
“We stand with innocent children. Always,” the statement concluded.
Their comments add to a growing list of Duggar family members who have publicly condemned the allegations. Earlier, Jinger Duggar Vuolo and her husband, Jeremy Vuolo, described the news as “devastating,” while Joy-Anna Duggar called the situation “heartbreaking and deeply disturbing.” Cousin Amy Duggar King also expressed outrage and heartbreak over the allegations.
Joseph Duggar was arrested on March 18 and charged with lewd and lascivious behavior involving a victim younger than 12, along with lewd and lascivious conduct by an adult. Investigators allege the incidents occurred during a family vacation in Florida in 2020. Court documents state that the alleged victim later reported multiple incidents of inappropriate touching.
Authorities have also filed additional charges against both Joseph and Kendra Duggar in Arkansas, including multiple counts of endangering the welfare of a minor and false imprisonment. Both have denied wrongdoing, and Joseph has entered a plea of not guilty to the Florida charges.
As the legal proceedings continue, the public statements from Jason and Maddie reflect the growing divide within the Duggar family, with several relatives openly condemning the allegations and voicing support for the alleged victim.
