A new legal case involving a member of the Duggar family has prompted a public response from Jill Duggar Dillard, who says she was shocked to learn of her brother’s arrest through media reports.
According to the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Joseph Duggar, 31, was taken into custody and is facing two counts of lewd and lascivious behavior involving a minor. Authorities say the charges stem from an investigation connected to an alleged incident involving a 9-year-old girl. He is currently being held in an Arkansas jail as the case moves forward.
In a statement shared on social media and a family blog, Jill Duggar Dillard and her husband, Derick Dillard, said they were “shocked and heartbroken” upon learning of the situation. They emphasized that they strongly condemn abuse of any kind, expressed support for the legal process, and said they hope justice is served.
The couple also shared prayers and support for the alleged victim and her family, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation. At the same time, they extended concern for Joseph Duggar’s wife, Kendra Duggar, and the couple’s children as they face the fallout from the case.
This development adds to the Duggar family’s history of legal issues, including the widely publicized case involving Josh Duggar, who was convicted in 2022 on charges related to illegal material involving minors.
Authorities have not released further details due to the sensitive nature of the allegations. The investigation remains ongoing, and no trial date has been publicly confirmed.
