Josh Duggar Scandal - In 2008, the Arkansas-based Duggar family became popular after they starred in the TLC series, "19 Kids and Counting." The series is one of the network's top-rated programs. However, with the latest controversy surrounding the Duggars, the future of the show remains unclear.
The Duggars, who are known to be a huge, close-knit and wholesome family, is currently facing a tough challenge after reports circulated this week that eldest son, Josh, was accused of sexually assaulting five minor girls in 2002. According to The Guardian, Josh Duggar was only 15 when the incidents happened.
Josh Duggar's sexual assault scandal, which seemed to be breaking the Duggar's perfect family façade, was initially reported by In Touch Weekly. In the 33-page police report, the Springdale, Arkansas Police Department was first notified of the sexual abuse involving Josh in December 2006.
Moreover, the damning document of Josh Duggar's scandal also included his parents, Jim Bob and Michelle's interview with the authorities in 2006. As per BuzzFeed, they described several instances where their children said Josh had fondled the breasts and vaginal areas of his sisters while they were sleeping along with another instance outside their home.
The said instances took place in 2002 and 2003, and the Duggars told authorities they then sent their son to a Christian program involving hard work and counseling. Since Josh had returned home, the family said there had been no more incidents and his sisters had forgiven him.
Investigators also interviewed several of the Duggar children who recounted what they remembered about the incident. While most said things had been better in recent years, one sibling admitted they did not feel safe at home.
Meanwhile, Josh Duggar, who is married with three children and one more due next month, bravely addressed the scandal on Thursday after reports surfaced that he allegedly molested minor girls as a teenager. CNN reported Josh issued an apology through a Facebook post.
"Twelve years ago, as a young teenager I acted inexcusably for which I am extremely sorry and deeply regret. I hurt others, including my family and close friends," 27-year-old Josh Duggar wrote. "I confessed this to my parents who took several steps to help me address the situation. We spoke with the authorities where I confessed my wrongdoing and my parents arranged for me and those affected by my actions to receive counseling."
"I sought forgiveness from those I had wronged and asked Christ to forgive me and come into my life," he added. "In my life today, I am so very thankful for God's grace, mercy and redemption."
If Josh Duggar's scandal is true, the statute of limitations for the alleged crime, which is a second-degree sexual assault, is three years. But the eldest Duggar son did not face any charges.
And as for "19 Kids and Counting" show, TLC spokesperson Shannon Llanes said the network pulled all episodes of the show currently set to air because of Josh Duggar's scandal. The network had already replaced several scheduled repeats of the Duggars' show with "The Little People."
