Joseph Duggar’s Accuser ‘Wants to Be Open’
Joseph Duggar‘s alleged victim is standing strong and refusing to be intimidated by the media scrutiny surrounding the case.
“It took immense courage for her to come forward, but she isn’t afraid,” an insider exclusively disclosed to Us Weekly. “She is resilient and doesn’t wish to conceal herself.”
Last month, Us confirmed that Duggar, 31, was taken into custody in Arkansas facing allegations of sexual abuse from a girl, now 14, who was 9 years old at the time of the supposed incident.
Duggar faces charges of lewd and lascivious conduct involving molestation of a minor under 12 and lewd and lascivious behavior by someone aged 18 or older, as stated in a press release issued by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office.
The former star of 19 Kids and Counting has entered a not guilty plea for all charges, and his legal team firmly denies the accusations.
While the accuser’s identity remains undisclosed, a source informed Us that she has connection to the family of Joseph’s wife, Kendra Duggar.
“[Kendra’s parents] Christina and Paul Caldwell are openly acknowledging that Joseph’s victim is [related to the Caldwell family],” the insider shared. “Christina has mentioned this to others in their church but is uncertain about discussing it publicly. That’s her struggle, but she’s not hiding it.”
Regarding why the victim delayed reporting the incident, the source indicated that she likely needed time to process what occurred.
“At the time of the alleged assault, Joseph was on vacation with Kendra and her family,” the insider asserted. “No other Duggar [family members] were present. As the years went on, [the alleged victim] began to grasp the situation better and found the courage to inform her family. Just as the police report indicates, once she told her family, they took action.”
Us has reached out to the Caldwells and the attorneys for Kendra and Joseph Duggar for statements.
Al Sauline, one of Joseph’s legal representatives, stated to Us, “Mr. Duggar holds the same presumption of innocence as any individual as outlined in our United States Constitution. Our priority remains to ensure Mr. Duggar is treated justly, regardless of his celebrity status.”
As the investigation progresses, both Kendra, 27, and Joseph’s parents have voiced their thoughts on this case that has captured national attention.
Less than two weeks post Joseph’s initial arrest, Jim Bob Duggar and Michelle Duggar addressed the situation concerning their son’s legal challenges.
“Jim Bob and Michelle are heartbroken over this entire situation,” a spokesperson for the Duggar family shared with Us. “Right now, they are concentrating on supporting their family and assisting Kendra and her children through this tough time. They are praying for the victim and ask for privacy, expressing gratitude for the kindness and prayers received from many.”
On April 15, Kendra’s family issued their first statement on social media, expressing their distress over the alleged actions carried out by their son-in-law.
“We are heartbroken for the young girl, a child who has shown incredible bravery in sharing her truth. We stand by her in support and prayer, now and always,” the statement read via Instagram. “Our love for this child is paramount in our family’s minds and hearts. We admire her strength in telling her story while maintaining her identity and happiness.”
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, please reach out to the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). If you or someone you know is facing child abuse, call or text the Child Help Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.
