Kendra Duggar’s Parents React to Joseph Duggar’s Alleged Crimes: ‘Troubled and Heartbroken’

Kendra Duggar’s parents are speaking out following their son-in-law Joseph Duggar’s sexual abuse scandal, making it clear their support lies with the alleged victim.

On Wednesday, April 15, Paul and Christina Caldwell shared a statement via their family Instagram account. They indicated it may be the only statement they plan to release regarding the situation.

“Our family is both troubled and heartbroken over the alleged actions committed by our son-in-law. 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 couple wrote.

“Our love for this child remains at the forefront of our family’s priorities and minds,” the post continued. “We are proud of her for being strong enough to share her story while also retaining her own identity and joy.”

The couple added that their faith is helping guide them through the ordeal.

“We pray all victims of crimes can be as courageous as this young girl is,” they wrote. “They should be able to share their story, to trust in the judicial process, and to do so without fear of retaliation. You are not alone.”

“At the same time, we also recognize how traumatic this incident has been for our grandchildren as well and continue to pray for their strength,” they added. “Our love for them, and our daughter Kendra, remains. We believe in a God who is just and loving. One who loves all of His children, especially the vulnerable and innocent.”

They concluded by thanking supporters, writing that the “only” path forward is “to shine light in the darkness.”

“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,” the statement concluded.

This is not the first time Kendra’s father has spoken publicly in the wake of the allegations. The concerned father launched a GoFundMe to help cover “displacement” expenses. As of April 15, the fund has received $31,761 raised of its $35,000 goal.

As In Touch previously reported, Joseph, 31, was arrested last month and accused of molesting a minor during a family vacation in 2020. The girl was allegedly 9 years old at the time.

Joseph and Kendra, 27 — who share four children together — were later hit with four counts each of endangering the welfare of a minor in the second degree and four counts of false imprisonment in the second degree. They have both since been released on bail with court dates set for later this month.